(C) News1
SEOUL – Christopher Buskirk, the co-founder of the influential American political network "Rockbridge Network," concluded a three-day visit to South Korea on Wednesday, signaling a strengthened alliance between the new U.S. administration’s inner circle and Korean leadership.
During his visit from January 13 to 15, Buskirk met with prominent figures in Korean politics and business to discuss the shifting global landscape following the inauguration of the Trump administration.
A Bridge Between Allies
"The Trump administration is dedicated to revitalizing the American middle class and fostering a new era of innovation," Buskirk stated during a dinner with Rockbridge Korea’s board of directors on the 14th. "Strengthening ties with key allies and trading partners like South Korea is crucial for the next 100 years. Rockbridge will serve as a vital platform in this process."
Rockbridge Network, famously co-founded by Buskirk and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, operates as a powerful donor and policy network in the States. Its Korean arm, launched last November as a policy think tank, is led by Chung Yong-jin, Chairman of Shinsegae Group, who serves as the Chairman of Rockbridge Asia.
Transcending Ideology for National Interest
Chairman Chung, known for his close ties to the U.S. political elite, expressed high expectations for the foundation’s role. "The cooperation between Korea and the U.S. is more important than ever," Chung remarked. "I hope Rockbridge Korea grows into a foundation that transcends partisan divides and speaks out for the national interest."
The board of Rockbridge Korea boasts a heavyweight lineup from across the political spectrum, including:
Kim Hae-young (Chairman of the Board, former Democratic Party lawmaker)
Kim Boo-kyum (Former Prime Minister)
Bahk Jae-wan (Former Minister of Strategy and Finance)
Kim Wu-seung (Former President of Hanyang University)
Addressing Global and Domestic Crises
The board members emphasized that South Korea faces a "polycrisis," including a shrinking population and weakening industrial competitiveness.
Board member Bahk Jae-wan noted the crisis in Korean democracy, stating, "Critics within their own parties—both conservative and progressive—have fallen silent. Rockbridge will strive to provide the objective policy leadership that is currently lacking."
With Buskirk officially joining the board of Rockbridge Korea following this visit, the organization is expected to gain significant momentum as a bridgehead for "K-U.S." strategic cooperation in the years to come.
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