South Korea’s Trade Chiefs Face US for Crucial Tariff Talks

 South Korea’s trade and industry ministers, Cheong In-kyo and Cho Ji-ho, will hold high-level trade talks in the United States this week, starting April 22, 2025, to address President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, including a 125% levy on Chinese imports and a 10% blanket duty. 

Reuters and Agenzia Nova reported the discussions, hosted by US Trade Representative Katherine Tai, will focus on shipbuilding and liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, critical for South Korea’s $1.7 trillion economy. Trump’s tariff reprieve for Seoul, announced April 10, offers negotiation room, but South Korea seeks exemptions to protect its $80 billion US trade surplus, per Chosun.

The talks follow Trump’s push for US-led LNG and defense shipbuilding, with South Korea’s Hyundai Heavy Industries eyeing US contracts. However, China’s retaliatory 84% tariffs complicate Seoul’s supply chains, per Bloomberg. 

Analysts warn that failure to secure concessions could cost South Korea $20 billion in exports annually, though Trump’s team views the talks as a chance to deepen bilateral ties. Posts on X reflect Seoul’s cautious optimism, with some fearing US protectionism.