U.S. President Donald Trump has presented South Korean President Lee Jae-myung with a specially crafted golden key to the White House, symbolising open doors and a close bilateral relationship, according to officials in Seoul and Washington.

The gift, delivered by South Korea’s ambassador to the United States after she presented her credentials to Mr Trump on December 17, reciprocates a ceremonial gift Mr Lee gave to the American president during his visit to South Korea in October, when he presented a replica of a Silla-era gold crown and South Korea’s highest state order.

The golden key, engraved with the phrase “Key to the White House” and designed personally by Mr Trump, signifies that Mr Lee is welcome at the presidential residence at any time.

In a statement shared by Mr Lee’s chief of staff on social media, Mr Trump expressed his appreciation for the gift he received in Gyeongju and described his regard for President Lee, saying “I really like him.” The ceremonial key is the final of five such keys reportedly produced and has been given to a select group of figures previously, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Japanese prime minister Taro Aso, technology entrepreneur Elon Musk and footballer Cristiano Ronaldo.

South Korean officials framed the exchange as emblematic of deepening security and economic cooperation between the two nations, which have recently advanced agreements on trade, modernisation of their defence alliance and reciprocal investment.

Analysts said the gesture highlights the personal rapport between the leaders and reflects sustained momentum in Washington–Seoul relations following diplomatic visits and negotiations tied to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit and broader strategic dialogues.

While the presentation of symbolic gifts carries no formal diplomatic obligations, officials on both sides said it reinforces the enduring alliance and mutual commitment to addressing shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.