Trump Leaves Asia Without Meeting Kim, North Koreans Unfazed

President Donald Trump concluded his recent tour of Asia without holding a long-anticipated meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Despite Trump’s public expressions of interest in a reunion during his travels, including stops in Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea, no discussions occurred. This absence of engagement appears to have elicited little reaction from North Koreans, according to reports from those recently visiting the country.

During his trip, Trump made various statements suggesting he would welcome discussions with Kim while in the region. Memories of their historic 2019 meeting at the demilitarized zone (DMZ), where Trump became the first sitting US president to cross into North Korea, loomed large. Nevertheless, as Trump met Japan’s Emperor in Tokyo and attended ceremonies in South Korea, North Korean state media remained silent on his Asia visit, failing to mention his overtures for dialogue.

Justin Martell, an American filmmaker who attended an international film festival in Pyongyang concurrent with Trump’s trip, reported that many locals were unaware of the US president’s presence in the region. “They weren’t negative about it,” Martell stated. “They weren’t overly hopeful either.” Instead, North Koreans echoed Kim’s recent remarks about his fond memories of Trump while maintaining that political realities diverge from personal sentiments.

Shifting Dynamics in North Korea

This indifference marks a notable shift from the heightened interest surrounding Trump’s summits with Kim in 2018 and 2019, which captivated both nations and the world. In March 2025, Trump’s efforts to rekindle dialogue seemed muted against the backdrop of North Korea’s evolving relationships with global powers. Recently, Kim appeared alongside Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia at a military parade in Beijing, underscoring a newfound unity against Western influence.

The current geopolitical landscape has diminished the significance of a potential handshake between Trump and Kim. As Martell observed, the North Korean elite appear to enjoy a higher standard of living, suggesting that sanctions have not significantly impacted their quality of life. Kim’s government is now focused on establishing itself as a nuclear power, with Kim stating his unwillingness to negotiate disarmament in exchange for sanctions relief.

Trump attributed the missed meeting to “timing,” explaining that his busy schedule prevented discussions. He noted that North Korea’s Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui was engaged in her own diplomatic mission during this period, complicating any last-minute arrangements. While North Korea launched cruise missiles just prior to Trump’s visit, the general atmosphere in Pyongyang reflected a disengaged stance toward the prospect of renewed talks.

Changes in Pyongyang and the Future of Dialogue

Martell’s observations from Pyongyang reveal significant developments in the city since his last visit in 2017. He described a transformation into a modern metropolis, complete with high-rises, advanced technology, and a burgeoning middle class. Traffic congestion in the capital, once rare, has become commonplace, indicating an increase in private car ownership.

The North Korean government seems to be projecting a narrative of resilience and progress, despite ongoing sanctions. Martell noted the presence of new murals commemorating the Workers’ Party and even depictions of North Korean soldiers in a positive light regarding the conflict in Ukraine.

Despite the absence of formal dialogue, Trump’s image remains prominent in North Korea. Martell’s group visited the International Friendship Exhibition, a museum showcasing gifts from foreign dignitaries, where Trump’s portrait was displayed alongside those of other leaders. This suggests that, while the current political climate may not favor immediate engagement, the door to future dialogue is not entirely closed.

Trump has expressed intentions to pursue discussions with Kim during future visits to Asia. He stated, “We’ll work very hard with Kim Jong Un and with everybody on getting things straightened out,” indicating that the possibility for renewed dialogue remains, albeit in a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape.