South Korea Seeks Tariff Exemption from US Amid Trade Tensions

South Korean officials, led by Deputy Minister Park Jong-won, have requested exemptions from U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs during their visit to Washington, emphasizing the nearly complete elimination of tariffs under their existing free trade agreement. The delegation expressed concerns over President Trump's recent tariffs, given South Korea's status as a major global exporter and a key trading partner of the U.S. Park underscored the significant investments made by South Korean companies in the U.S. and proposed high-level meetings with the Trump administration to discuss further cooperation and maintain incentives for South Korean businesses. The South Korean government aims to minimize the impact of U.S. protectionist measures on local industries through continued dialogue. Acting President Choi Sang-mok highlighted that South Korea has invested heavily in the U.S., which strengthens their position in tariff negotiations. Economists note that South Korea's contributions to the U.S. economy, including job creation, bolster their case for tariff exemptions.