South Korea and the United States are set to launch a new round of high-level talks this week, focusing on key trade issues, including tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the negotiations will include not only the countries’ top trade officials but also their finance ministers, in line with an initial proposal from the White House. While the exact date and agenda are still being finalized, the meeting is expected to take place on Thursday the 24th.
Seoul’s main objective is to secure a reduction or removal of U.S. tariffs on major Korean exports, such as automobiles and semiconductors. However, the government is also preparing to address the cost-sharing of joint defense operations, anticipating a potential push from Washington for South Korea to increase its financial contribution.
Meanwhile, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Ahn Duk-geun commented on the liquefied natural gas (LNG) development project in Alaska—a venture the U.S. has been encouraging South Korea to join. Ahn said the proposal is under consideration, but emphasized that Seoul’s primary motivation is not to gain tariff concessions, but rather to strengthen national energy security.
