US and South Korea Push for Early Tariff Agreement Amid Trade Talks

The United States and South Korea have reaffirmed their commitment to reaching a swift resolution on key tariff issues, according to South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. The renewed pledge came during a Monday meeting between South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo and U.S. officials in Washington, D.C.

Yeo urged the U.S. to grant exemptions from President Donald Trump’s "reciprocal" tariffs, particularly those affecting South Korean exports such as steel and automobiles. He held discussions with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to address the ongoing economic impact of these tariffs and to explore pathways to strengthen bilateral trade.

The South Korean trade ministry emphasized the urgency of eliminating trade barriers to support industries hit hard by global supply chain disruptions. Yeo also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the Korea-U.S. alliance through fair and balanced trade policies.

Separately, Acting U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Joseph Yun stated at a seminar on Tuesday that further discussions on the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) could be forthcoming. His remarks, reported by local media outlet Money Today, suggest renewed diplomatic momentum for trade reform between the two allies.

The meeting underscores growing pressure on both governments to resolve tariff-related frictions that have lingered since the implementation of Trump-era trade policies. As South Korea seeks to secure favorable terms amid rising global protectionism, the outcome of these negotiations could significantly influence the future of bilateral trade and manufacturing competitiveness.

The talks mark a pivotal moment in Korea-U.S. economic relations as both sides aim to bolster trade cooperation while protecting strategic industries.