U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has named Alex Wong as deputy national security adviser, signaling potential plans to reengage with North Korea. Wong, who played a key role in nuclear negotiations with Pyongyang during Trump’s first term, will be tasked with addressing pressing global security challenges.
In a statement Friday, Trump praised Wong’s contributions, highlighting his involvement in the historic 2018 summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. “As Deputy Special Representative for North Korea, he helped negotiate my summit with Kim,” Trump said. “Alex also led the State Department’s efforts to implement the Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy.”
Wong’s appointment comes amid speculation that Trump may revive his personal diplomacy with Kim in an attempt to resolve North Korea’s escalating nuclear threats. As a deputy assistant secretary at the State Department, Wong spearheaded efforts to enforce sanctions and counter the regime’s illicit cyber activities.
Observers note that Wong’s selection suggests a renewed focus on diplomacy, though challenges remain. North Korea’s growing military ties with Russia and its advanced weapons programs could complicate any U.S. outreach.
During his presidency, Trump prioritized direct engagement with Kim, holding three summits, including the landmark 2018 meeting in Singapore. However, talks stalled following the 2019 Hanoi summit, which ended without an agreement. Despite this, Trump has consistently emphasized the potential for “real change,” often referencing his personal rapport with Kim.
Wong, a Harvard Law School graduate and senior fellow at the Hudson Institute, brings extensive experience in foreign policy and national security. His academic background includes serving as managing editor of the Harvard Law Review and chairman of the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission.
Also joining Trump’s national security team is Sebastian Gorka, appointed as White House senior director for counterterrorism. Gorka, a veteran with over 30 years of experience, will oversee efforts to address global terror threats.
As Trump prepares to take office, the appointments signal a potential pivot to rekindling diplomatic efforts with Pyongyang and addressing broader international security challenges. Whether North Korea will respond favorably to these overtures remains uncertain.