In a recent blunder that has sparked ridicule and criticism, US President Joe Biden mistakenly referred to North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un as the president of South Korea. The incident occurred during a campaign reception in California’s Portola Valley, where Biden was targeting former President Donald Trump for his close ties with Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“We’ll never forget his love letters for the South Korean President Kim Jong Un or his admiration for Putin — what a great leader Putin is,” Biden said, according to a White House transcript of his remarks at the reception.
This is not the first time Biden has made such a mistake. Last year, he welcomed South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol for a state dinner at the White House but mispronounced his name and referred to him as “President Moon,” who was actually Yoon’s predecessor. Biden has also stumbled over the names of leaders from Mexico, Egypt, France, Germany, and Ukraine in the past.
Critics have raised concerns about Biden’s mental health and fitness for office, especially as he seeks a second term in the White House. If re-elected in November, Biden would be 86 years old by the end of his second term.
Social media users were quick to react to Biden’s latest gaffe, with many expressing disbelief and questioning his ability to serve as President. Despite the backlash, Biden continues to face scrutiny for his verbal blunders and missteps on the global stage.