Trump Open to Meeting Kim Jong-un During Asia Tour, Invites Media to Spread Word

Former US President Donald Trump has expressed his willingness to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong-un during his ongoing Asia tour, marking a potential new chapter in US–North Korea relations. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of his visit to Malaysia, Trump stated he is “100% open” to engaging with Kim, highlighting the possibility of a historic diplomatic encounter between the two leaders.

When asked how North Korea could be informed about the offer, Trump humorously noted the country’s limited communication infrastructure, saying, “You know, they don’t have a lot of telephone service. They have a lot of nuclear weapons but not a lot of telephone service, so I’m open to it.” His remarks suggest a desire to publicly signal his availability for discussions, even though US officials clarified that no meeting with Kim is officially on the itinerary.

Trump’s Asia tour, which spans Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, has multiple strategic objectives, including addressing trade tensions, technology issues, and US engagement in the region. The former president’s openness to meet Kim Jong-un is being closely watched by diplomats and analysts, as it could set the stage for a rare summit between the two leaders after several years of stalled talks.

While there is no confirmed plan for a direct encounter, officials have indicated that schedules could change, leaving the door open for last-minute diplomacy. Analysts note that any such meeting would carry significant global implications, given North Korea’s nuclear capabilities and the sensitive security dynamics in East Asia.

Trump’s statement comes amid a broader regional push to maintain dialogue and reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula. His remarks have generated widespread media attention, emphasizing his unorthodox style of announcing potential diplomatic initiatives publicly.

Observers also highlight that this development aligns with Trump’s long-standing interest in engaging directly with North Korean leadership, a strategy that was central during his previous tenure. The possibility of a meeting underscores the unpredictability of international diplomacy and the continued interest of both the US and regional powers in stabilizing relations with Pyongyang.