South Korean President Lee Jae Myung warned that Seoul could face a financial crisis similar to the 1997 meltdown if it accepts U.S. demands for $350 billion in investments without safeguards. He said the key stumbling block in trade talks is ensuring the commercial viability of projects, with Washington insisting on control over where the money goes.Lee said South Korea has proposed a foreign exchange swap with the U.S. to limit risks but noted that, unlike Japan, Seoul lacks large reserves or a swap line. While he sees no major disagreements with the U.S. on defence and security, he cautioned that unresolved trade issues could destabilise ties.On other fronts, Lee played down concerns over a U.S. immigration raid on a Hyundai plant, saying it was likely driven by overzealous officials rather than directed by President Trump. He also warned of rising threats from Russia–North Korea military cooperation, while acknowledging that dialogue with Pyongyang will be difficult for now. Lee stressed that peace around the Taiwan Strait and finding an “exit ramp” from global tensions remain urgent priorities. Reuters with the info- This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at investinglive.com.