‘The Trump Effect’ Reaches South Korea’s President in an Endearing Way

It seems not even South Korea’s president Yoon Suk Yeol is immune from “The Trump Effect.” Whether it’s a soaring U.S. stock market or world leaders clambering to get on his good side, we’ve all noticed positive change since the Don took the election in a slam-dunk victory. And now “The Trump Effect” has expanded yet again, this time in the form of world leaders brushing up on their golf games.

The AP reports:

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has dusted off his golf clubs in an attempt to forge a bond with President-elect Donald Trump, an avid lover of the game.

The presidential office said Tuesday that Yoon began practicing the game for the first time in eight years in preparation for a possible round of golf with Trump.

Since his election, Trump’s “America first” approach has raised concerns it could negatively affect the U.S. defense commitment to South Korea and hurt the trade interests of the Northeast Asian country in various ways, including increased tariffs.

Some experts say it’s important to build a close personal friendship with Trump during the transition period before he formally takes office in January.

Why is this cute to me? I just keep picturing Yoon trying to get his swing right so he can impress Trump.

But in reality, I know this isn’t cute—it’s smart. Getting on Trump’s good side is crucial for Yoon. After all, he has a crazy neighbor with a rocket obsession. 

Will we be seeing Yoon at Mar-a-Lago anytime soon for a game? Only time—and practice—will tell.