Pres. Lee faces key diplomatic events upon returning from summer break

President Lee Jae Myung wraps up his five-day summer break today.

Waiting for him is a packed calendar, including summits with global leaders as well as key domestic decisions.

Our Presidential Office correspondent Yoon Jung-min has a preview.

The President will have a lot on his plate when he returns to work from his week-long vacation.

First off, he is set to host Vietnam's political leader To Lam on Monday, the first foreign leader to be hosted by President Lee Jae Myung.

Their focus is on partnership in key areas at a time when global trade uncertainty grows.

"On top of politics, security, trade and investment, the leaders will discuss strategically important areas in-depth, including nuclear energy, high-speed railways, and smart cities, as well as science technology and human resources."

Then will come the first Lee-Trump summit in Washington, likely slated for August 25th, according to diplomatic sources.

A framework trade deal has been reached between Seoul and Washington with the U.S. tough on tariffs, but it's not a done deal.

The two sides still need to work on the details, such as the quarantine process for fruit and vegetables imported from the U.S.

Security issues could be also on the table, such as upping South Korea's defense spending and a possible change to the role and scale of U.S. troops stationed in Korea as Washington focuses on countering China's influence.

Here at home, Lee's official schedule includes the "People's Appointment Ceremony" --as named by the top office --on August 15th at Gwanghwanmun Square, when the nation celebrates the 80th anniversary of its liberation from Japan's colonial rule.

It will act as the official inauguration ceremony for the president who took office in June right after the election and without a formal inauguration ceremony, given that it was a snap election.

"At this event, the people will be declared as the owner of the country and a pledge will be made develop the Republic of Korea as a leading nation by upholding the sovereign will of the people."

Invited are former presidents and first ladies --both conservatives and liberals alike --and people from all walks of life.

Also, appointments of key posts will likely pick up speed to fill the remainder of the Cabinet seats as well as ambassadorial posts to the U.S., Japan, China and Russia that are currently vacant.

On top of the nominations, speculation is rife that Lee will confirm the first round of presidential pardons during next week's Cabinet meeting for the Liberation Day, that could spark some political repercussions.

Yoon Jung-min, Arirang News.