South Korea has expressed its intention to avoid retaliating against the recent U.S. tariffs and instead pursue negotiations for a new trade deal with the United States. This stance comes in response to the sweeping tariffs announced by the Trump administration, which include a 26% tariff on South Korean imports, as well as a separate 25% tariff on foreign automobiles and key parts, significantly impacting South Korea’s export-driven economy. South Korean leaders, including Acting President Han Duck-soo, have emphasized a strategy of dialogue over confrontation. Han has directed officials to analyze the tariffs’ impact and engage actively with Washington to minimize economic damage, stating that the government must use all its capabilities to address the emerging trade crisis. Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun has described the tariffs as “regrettable” but affirmed Seoul’s commitment to ongoing consultations with U.S. counterparts at various levels to protect South Korean interests, particularly for industries like automotive manufacturing, which are heavily reliant on the U.S. market. This approach contrasts with other nations’ threats of retaliation and reflects South Korea’s preference for leveraging its long-standing alliance with the U.S. to secure favorable terms amid escalating global trade tensions.
