Expect a nuanced approach to foreign policy as President Lee Jae-myung attempts to pull relations with Beijing back from their 'lowest ebb' Six months ago, South Korea teetered on the brink of authoritarian regression.

Korea watchers want to know, as the American leader spends an hour and a half on the phone with the Chinese party boss, Xi Jinping.

South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung rode a wave of voter anger against the December martial law attempt by his ousted predecessor, but his ability to lead will be judged by the strength of his policies.