U.S. President Donald Trump has announced an increase in tariffs on South Korean imports from 15% to 25%, accusing Seoul of not swiftly implementing a trade agreement reached last October. The higher duties apply to automobiles, lumber, pharmaceuticals, and other goods under reciprocal tariff arrangements.
South Korea stated it has not received official notification and seeks urgent talks with Washington. The deal, still under review in South Korea’s National Assembly, includes a $350 billion investment pledge from Seoul into the U.S. This move is part of Trump’s broader use of tariffs as a foreign policy tool, following recent threats against Canada and other allies over trade and geopolitical issues.
