From Roh Tae-woo's administration to Roh Moo-hyun's administration, South Korea sought to establish an American partnership, which has made the Seoul–Washington relationship subject to some strains, especially with the Anti-US/Korean sentiments. However, relations between the United States and South Korea have greatly strengthened under the conservative, pro-U.S. Lee Myung-bak administration. At the 2009 G-20 London Summit, U.S. President Barack Obama called South Korea "one of America's closest allies and greatest friends."[1] In addition, South Korea has been designated as a Major non-NATO ally.[2]
According to a 2014 BBC World Service Poll, 58% of South Koreans view United States' influence positively, and with 28% view of negatively, and 55% of Americans views South Korea's influence positively, and with 34% view of negatively. South Korea is one of the most pro-American nations in the world.