SEOUL: South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-mok, has expressed concerns over the increasing trade pressure from the United States under President Donald Trump's "America First" policies.
Speaking on Tuesday, Choi highlighted that Washington’s latest approach to tariffs appears to be directly targeting South Korea.
Negotiations between the two allies are underway to address new trade measures, including reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2. Discussions are also focusing on strengthening cooperation in the energy and shipbuilding sectors.
President Trump has announced a global system of reciprocal tariffs on all U.S. trading partners, raising tensions with key allies. According to Choi, Trump recently warned of applying "all-out pressure" on South Korea, citing high tariffs imposed by Seoul on American goods during his address to Congress.
In response, Choi has instructed government officials to maintain open dialogue with their U.S. counterparts to prevent misunderstandings over tariff policies. "The government will prioritize national interests and handle the situation with both a cool head and flexibility," Choi stated during a cabinet meeting. He emphasized efforts to seek a mutually beneficial resolution between South Korea and the United States.
Meanwhile, Trump has also signaled his intention to repeal a bipartisan law supporting subsidies for semiconductor manufacturing. The previous U.S. administration had approved over $33 billion in funding for the chip industry, including $4.7 billion allocated to South Korea’s Samsung Electronics.
Beyond trade concerns, Choi acknowledged growing public anxiety over the potential for unrest ahead of a key ruling by the Constitutional Court. The court is set to decide on the fate of impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, whose brief declaration of martial law last year sparked a political crisis.
Supporters and opponents of Yoon have been holding large-scale rallies, prompting the government to prepare for possible unrest. Choi vowed a firm response to any illegal or violent demonstrations, stating that authorities would take "zero tolerance" measures if necessary.
With tensions mounting, South Korean police are preparing for "worst-case scenarios" to ensure public safety when the court delivers its ruling in the coming days.
