Prime Minister Kim Min-seok has departed for a five-day trip to the United States, his first overseas visit since taking office.

Kim left for Washington from Incheon International Airport on Thursday morning without a customary departure press briefing.

Kim is reportedly coordinating a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance during the visit.

His itinerary also includes meetings with members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the Korean community in the United States.

Kim is scheduled to travel to New York before returning to South Korea on Monday.

The Prime Minister’s Office said the trip would contribute positively to South Korea–U.S. relations.

The visit marks Kim's first overseas trip since his inauguration and the first time since 1987 that a prime minister has made a solo visit to the United States.