South Korea assures US it is not deliberately stalling on trade commitments

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has sought to reassure the United States that his country is not deliberately slowing down the implementation of a critical bilateral trade agreement. During a meeting in Washington with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday, Cho addressed growing American frustration over the pace of South Korea's legislative process and the resulting threat of increased tariffs.

Addressing US Concerns Over Trade Commitments

According to reports, Cho conveyed to Rubio that the relationship between the two allies remains strong but acknowledged that the "internal climate in the U.S. is not good" regarding Seoul's progress on trade commitments. He firmly rejected suggestions that the parliamentary approval of a necessary special investment bill was being intentionally delayed, reaffirming South Korea's commitment to the deal.

Context of Trump's Tariff Threats

The diplomatic talks follow a direct threat from President Donald Trump, who last month announced plans to raise tariffs on key South Korean imports—including automobiles, lumber, and pharmaceuticals—from 15% to 25%. Trump accused South Korea's legislature of failing to approve the previously agreed terms of a deal that involves a $350 billion South Korean investment pledge in exchange for reduced US tariffs. The pending bill is scheduled for review and a vote next month.

Broader Alliance and Future Cooperation

Minister Cho emphasized that trade disagreements should not hinder the broader strategic and security partnership between the two nations. He specifically asked Rubio to encourage relevant US agencies to ensure sufficient consultations on three other vital bilateral agreements covering civil nuclear energy, nuclear-powered submarines, and shipbuilding, underscoring the multidimensional nature of the alliance.