Finance minister abruptly calls off G20 trip amid cabinet reshuffle speculation

Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol abruptly canceled his scheduled trip to the United States for the Group of 20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting, despite already being at Incheon International Airport on Sunday, according to government sources. Koo was set to meet with finance officials from various countries, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, during the G20 gathering in Asheville, North Carolina.

However, the decision to cancel his trip was sudden and unexpected, as Koo had already arrived at the airport, prompting photographers to capture images of his departure. The Ministry of Finance and Economy had prepared a press release announcing his departure, which was then abruptly withdrawn before distribution. The ministry explained the cancellation as a "change in schedule" and expressed regret for the short notice.