President Donald Trump recently announced a significant increase in tariffs on goods imported from South Korea, raising them from 15% to 25%. This change affects cars, pharmaceuticals, and lumber. Trump’s decision comes amid delays in South Korea’s legislature approving a trade agreement they reached last summer.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed frustration, stating, “South Korea’s Legislature is not living up to its Deal with the United States.” He emphasized the importance of the agreement made during his visit to Korea on October 29, 2025, asking why it hasn’t been approved yet.
As a response to the continued hold-up, he declared the tariff hikes on various products, stressing that the increase is a necessary measure due to South Korea’s inaction.
In their response, South Korea’s Blue House noted that they had not received an official notification about the tariff increase. Meanwhile, officials are set to meet to explore potential responses.
South Korea is a key trading partner for the U.S., exporting about $131.6 billion worth of goods in 2024 alone. Among these, Hyundai Motor stands out as the top supplier of vehicles to the American market.
The trade deal from July had initially proposed a flat tariff of 15%, which was an adjustment from the steeper rates Trump previously suggested. Trump also mentioned that South Korea would contribute $350 billion for investments controlled by the U.S.
The legality of Trump’s tariff decisions is currently under scrutiny. The U.S. Supreme Court has been reviewing a case questioning whether the president has the authority to impose such tariffs without Congress’s approval. The court has yet to release its ruling.
Trade experts argue that tariffs can lead to unintended economic consequences, potentially raising prices for consumers and straining international relationships. As tariffs rise, social media reactions reveal mixed sentiments, with some supporting Trump’s strong stance on trade and others expressing concerns over escalating tensions.
The evolving nature of U.S.-South Korea trade relations reflects a broader trend in global trade, where increasing nationalism and protectionism are reshaping the economic landscape. The outcome of these tariff hikes could set a significant precedent for how trade agreements are handled in the future.
For more insights, you can visit the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
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