South Korea Launches Investigation into U.S. Trade Compliance

South Korea is initiating a special investigation into potential violations of its free trade agreement with the United States, specifically regarding country of origin markings, as announced by the Korea Customs Service (KCS). This measure is taken in anticipation of new tariffs that the Trump administration may impose on several major trading partners. The KCS aims to prevent companies from mislabeling foreign goods as South Korean to secure trade benefits, thereby protecting domestic businesses and maintaining the integrity of exports. The investigation will particularly focus on products vulnerable to misrepresentation, such as those subject to U.S. anti-dumping tariffs. Concerns have been raised over stricter U.S. customs inspections similar to those experienced during Trump's previous term, prompting this proactive approach. The KCS plans to enforce strict penalties on any violators to uphold trade compliance and support legitimate exporters.