Seoul: A former U.S. envoy to South Korea has emphasized the importance of policy coordination between Seoul and Washington regarding nuclear diplomacy with North Korea. This call for coordination comes as U.S. President Donald Trump expresses a renewed interest in engaging with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.According to Yonhap News Agency, Philip Goldberg, who recently finished his tenure as the U.S. ambassador to South Korea, dismissed concerns about the state of policy engagement between the allies amid South Korea's political unrest. He described their engagement as "sufficient," although acknowledging it is "not ideal."Goldberg defended the United States' long-standing goal of denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula, which he argued has helped maintain unity between Seoul and Washington and brought other countries into alignment. He responded to Trump's recent enigmatic comment referring to North Korea as a "nuclear power."Reflecting on the failed martial law declaration by the now-impeached South Ko rean President Yoon Suk Yeol in December, Goldberg labeled it a "huge error" and an "undemocratic act." However, he expressed confidence in South Korea's adherence to its constitutional and legal frameworks following the incident.Goldberg stressed the need for U.S. denuclearization talks with North Korea to proceed in coordination with the South Korean government. He noted the uncertainty surrounding Trump's approach to North Korea's nuclear issue should he secure a second term, urging caution instead of premature conclusions.He highlighted the complexity of negotiations regarding North Korea's denuclearization, stating that any progress would not happen immediately. Goldberg doubted Kim Jong-un's interest in discussions and noted the challenges posed by North Korea's alliance with Moscow, which might lessen its willingness to engage with the U.S.Goldberg acknowledged the effectiveness of sanctions in hindering North Korea's nuclear and missile advancements, citing Kim Jong-un's desire for their removal as evidence of their impact.Reflecting on his time in Seoul, particularly during the tumultuous period following Yoon's martial law attempt, Goldberg described the event as "chaotic" and "inexplicable" for a democratic nation. Despite the political turmoil, he expressed confidence in continued policy coordination between the U.S. and South Korea.Goldberg also touched on the potential role adjustment of U.S. Forces Korea in response to China-related issues, stressing that any changes should be mutually agreed upon by the U.S. and South Korea.He concluded by highlighting the significance of the trilateral security partnership between Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo in the Indo-Pacific region and shared his memorable experiences during his ambassadorship in South Korea, particularly the events marking the 70th anniversary of the bilateral alliance.