Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in South Korea, but it’s not for a state visit.
The ex-Liberal leader just delivered his first major speech since leaving politics earlier this year, taking the stage at the World Knowledge Forum in Seoul — one of Asia’s biggest gatherings of global leaders. On Tuesday, Trudeau delivered a keynote called “Leadership and Resilience in a Time of Transition.”
He touched on a variety of topics, including global conflicts and artificial intelligence, while also discussing Canada’s relationship with the host country.
“I have long had a deep friendship with Korea and a lot of admiration,” Trudeau said, as per The Tribune. “Despite all the differences on the surface, our shared values and desire to build a better world bring Canadians and Koreans together in a tremendous way.”
This marks Trudeau’s debut as a professional public speaker, and it’s already a lucrative move. His services are handled through Speaker Booking Agency, which officially lists his in-person speaking fee at US $100,000 or more. That puts him in the same price range as global celebrities and sports icons represented by the same agency, such as Kevin O’Leary, Magic Johnson, and Keith Urban.
“As a renowned expert and highly sought-after speaker, Justin Trudeau’s expertise is in high demand,” the agency’s website notes. It also says he’s available for virtual speaking engagements.
Since resigning as PM in early 2025, Trudeau has mostly kept a low profile, but not entirely off the radar. He recently starred in a reaction video to his son Xavier’s debut music video. He also turned heads over the summer when he was seen hanging out with pop star Katy Perry ahead of her Montreal concert, sparking a slew of romance rumours.
After (nearly) three terms as Canada’s leader, the 53-year-old is set to receive two lifetime pensions worth a combined $8.4 million. One kicks in within the next two years, with another to follow later in life.
Throw in a couple more six-figure speeches, and Trudeau looks set for a very comfortable post-political career.
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