Washington, Oct 5 (NationPress) South Korea's newly appointed top representative to the United States has committed to utilizing "all embassy capacities" to effectively tackle trade and other significant bilateral matters as she arrives in Washington to commence her ambassadorship.

Ambassador Kang Kyung-wha, who previously served as Seoul's foreign minister from 2017 to 2021, emphasized the urgency of addressing a series of pressing challenges, including the finalization of a trade agreement, the resumption of diplomatic talks with North Korea, and resolving visa concerns for Korean workers.

"As complex issues have arisen between Korea and the US, I will exert my utmost efforts to resolve these matters effectively by leveraging not only my own capabilities but also the full capacity of the embassy," she stated upon her arrival at Dulles International Airport near Washington.

As the nation’s first female ambassador to the US, she plans to draw upon her extensive experience as a former foreign minister and her role as the head of the Asia Society to fulfill her responsibilities successfully in the US.

Highlighting a key issue in the bilateral relationship, Kang pointed to ongoing negotiations regarding the US$350 billion investment fund that Seoul has pledged as part of a framework trade agreement with US President Donald Trump's administration, as reported by Yonhap news agency.

"We will respond comprehensively on the ground to ensure both sides can achieve a mutually beneficial agreement," she affirmed.

"While the industry and trade ministers are directly involved in reaching a deal, as the embassy chief, I believe it is my duty to provide them with maximum support."

Kang also discussed the collaborative efforts between Seoul and Washington aimed at resolving visa issues for Korean workers amid ongoing concerns regarding the US' reliability as an investment partner following last month’s immigration crackdown that led to the detention of over 310 Korean workers in Georgia.

"I understand that the initial meeting of the working group concluded positively to facilitate Korean businesspeople's entry," she remarked.

"I will strive to ensure that a sustainable and trustworthy visa program is established as we engage in the second working-group meeting and further negotiations on this matter."

Before her departure to the US, Kang met with Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung, as South Korea's automotive sector faces a 25% auto tariff, with a bilateral agreement to reduce it to 15% still pending negotiations to finalize the trade deal struck in July.

"Hyundai's perspective is crucial, as businesses and the government must collaborate effectively to achieve positive outcomes," she noted.

When asked about a recent White House statement indicating that Trump remains open to discussions with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un "without any preconditions," Kang reiterated South Korean President Lee Jae Myung's support for Trump's approach to dialogue with Pyongyang.

"On the ground, we should communicate this message by honoring President Lee's intentions and ensure that dialogue can take place between the US and the North," she asserted.

"Ultimately, North Korea must engage in dialogue. We will maintain close consultations with US officials regarding this matter."

Kang also addressed reports that Trump is expected to visit South Korea for a single day ahead of the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit later this month, stating that discussions between Seoul and Washington are ongoing.

"We are working to establish a schedule for Trump's visit to Korea that satisfies both parties, and we will actively support this effort here in the US," she concluded.