(LEAD) New U.S. Ambassador Steel meets FM Cho, submits credentials

Michelle Park Steel, the recently appointed U.S. ambassador to South Korea, arrived in Seoul on August 4, 2025, to commence her official duties. Her first official act was to submit her credentials to the South Korean foreign ministry, a routine step in diplomatic protocol that signifies the beginning of her tenure. Accompanied by her husband, Shawn Steel, she met with Foreign Minister Cho Hyun at the foreign ministry building.

After submitting her credentials, Ms. Steel did not provide any immediate commentary to reporters. Ms. Steel's appointment fills a long-standing vacancy, having succeeded Philip Goldberg who served from July 2022 to January 2025. Her arrival arrives at a crucial juncture for the U.S.-South Korea relationship, with several pressing issues requiring attention.

These include South Korea's regulatory action against Coupang, a U.S.-listed company, following a significant data breach; Seoul's investment plans in the United States; and South Korea's endeavors to develop nuclear-powered submarines. According to Park Doo-soon, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Steel is anticipated to leverage her understanding of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and bilateral relations to strengthen ties between the two nations.