U.S. Secretary of State to Prevent Acting President Choi Sang-mok "completely trusts the acting system..."Firm defense commitment".

U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken, who visited Korea, said he completely trusts the leadership of the acting president Choi Sang-mok and that the U.S. defense commitment to South Korea has not been shaken at all.

The Ministry of Strategy and Finance said Blinken made the remarks at a meeting with Acting Chief Executive Choi Sang-mok at the Seoul Government Complex earlier today.

Blinken said that as a friend of South Korea, the U.S. has complete confidence in the power of South Korea's democracy as well as the leadership of the acting president Choi, stressing that the U.S. defense commitment to South Korea is unshakable.

In response, Acting President Choi Sang-mok thanked the U.S. for its support and trust in the Korea-U.S. alliance and democracy, saying that Blinken's visit to Korea shows the unwavering alliance between the U.S. and South Korea.

Choi also stressed that he would communicate closely between diplomatic and security authorities and prepare for any possible North Korean provocations with a strong South Korea-U.S. joint defense posture.

Secretary Blinken also conveyed his consolation and prayers on behalf of the American people over the recent Jeju Air flight disaster, and said the United States was ready to provide any necessary support, the Ministry of Economy and Finance said.