President Donald Trump speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Tuesday, Jan. 21, in Washington. AP-Yonhap

Dear Mr. President, Congratulations on your inauguration as the 47th president of the United States. Your dynamic leadership has already begun to make a significant impact, and I am optimistic that under your guidance, both the U.S. and the world will continue to thrive in stability and prosperity.

However, it's clear that your presidency also brings with it a sense of unpredictability, and concerns about rising global uncertainties. While your "Make America Great Again" policies reflect your commitment to American interests, there is no doubt that the increasing trend of protectionism and growing tensions among countries have added a layer of complexity to global relations.

Yet, despite these challenges, I believe there are numerous opportunities that can shine a light on the future.

One of the most notable opportunities comes in the realm of global conflict resolution. You've already made it clear that you want to bring an end to the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Your proactive approach could play a key role in ending the war between Russia and Ukraine, especially given your leadership and the U.S.' global strength. Russian President Vladimir Putin has already extended an offer to meet with you, and it's likely you will seriously consider this. The end of this conflict would have a profound impact on the Korean Peninsula as well, particularly with North Korea's involvement in the war. Thousands of North Korean soldiers have reportedly been killed or injured, highlighting the connection between these global conflicts and South Korea's security.

If you are successful in bringing about an end to the war, we will enter a period of post-war reconstruction in which South Korea could play a pivotal role. As Russia looks to rebuild, it will likely seek economic cooperation with nations like South Korea, given the technological advancements and economic prowess the country can provide. While Russia has been increasingly isolated from Europe, South Korea offers tremendous potential for mutually beneficial partnerships. This could lead to new opportunities for both countries and strengthen the global order.

On the topic of North Korea, it seems you have a unique role to play. Describing North Korea as nuclear power you reiterated hope to meet him. Kim Jong-un is facing growing domestic challenges, particularly following his decision to send soldiers to the front lines under an agreement with Russia. His support for Russia has strained his relationship with China, North Korea's traditional ally. You've already met with Kim on multiple occasions during your first term, and your ability to maintain open lines of communication with him may provide an avenue for progress. Your recent phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping demonstrates your commitment to direct diplomacy, and I believe this approach could be helpful in resuming inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation, ultimately bringing greater stability to the region.

That said, I want to make a suggestion that I hope will be taken into consideration. When making significant decisions that directly affect the security of the Korean people, particularly on issues like denuclearization, it would be prudent to ensure that South Korea is consulted in advance. This will help avoid domestic debates about nuclear armament, which could then prompt other neighboring countries, like Japan and Taiwan, to consider similar options. Such a domino effect could undermine the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and disrupt regional stability. Open communication between our countries will ensure that we remain aligned on these important issues.

One area where our nations already share significant potential for collaboration is the shipbuilding sector. During your conversation with President Yoon Suk Yeol last November, you highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation in this area. The U.S. has long been the leader in naval power, but it is evident that the country has fallen behind in terms of manufacturing and maintaining both combat and commercial vessels. As China has grown its naval capabilities, the U.S. faces increasing pressure to modernize and maintain its edge in the world's oceans.

South Korea, on the other hand, has world-class capabilities in shipbuilding and ship maintenance. With its advanced technologies and expertise in producing both military and commercial vessels, South Korea is well-positioned to help the U.S. enhance its naval strength. By deepening cooperation in this sector, both countries can benefit from strengthened military capabilities, while also improving commercial shipbuilding and repair services. This partnership would serve to elevate our alliance to the same level as other strong relationships the U.S. has with countries like the United Kingdom, Japan and Israel.

Mr. President, the bond between the United States and South Korea goes beyond the traditional concept of an alliance. It is a relationship built on shared values such as democracy, freedom and the market economy. The deep trust and affection between our nations are evidenced by the lasting ties between veterans of the 1950-53 Korean War and the large Korean American community in the U.S. This bond has only grown stronger over the years, and I believe there is tremendous potential for our two countries to play an even greater role in promoting peace and prosperity on the global stage.

The growing threats from North Korea, the challenges posed by China and the ongoing global shifts demand that our two nations work more closely than ever. Whether it is through joint efforts in defense, technology or industry, our collaboration will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future.

Mr. President! I know you recently mentioned the political turmoil here, saying "look at South Korea," which you said is more "chaotic" than yourself. Yet I would like to stress that Korea has a strong democratic resilience and will return to normalcy soon. Highly educated and decently sensible Korean people will not allow their country to plunge into chaos under any circumstances.

In closing, I respectfully encourage you to continue to focus on upgrading the alliance between our countries. The potential for mutual prosperity and greater regional security is vast, and together, we can create a more stable and peaceful world.

Last but not least, I would like to extend my heartfelt grief for those who suffered from the disastrous forest fire that engulfed Los Angeles area. I urge the Korean government, albeit without a president, to provide the necessary relief, although belatedly, in respect of the value of the alliance.

I wish you all the best in your leadership, and I look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of the strong partnership between the United States and South Korea.

Sincerely,

Shim Jae-yun is chief editorial writer of The Korea Times.