South Korea pushing hard on US tariff talks

Seoul

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Thursday that his government is making its best efforts to finalize tariff negotiations with the United States before the July 8 deadline set by US President Donald Trump. However, he admitted it is still uncertain whether the talks will conclude on time.

Speaking at a press conference marking his first month in office, President Lee said that both countries are still working to find common ground to reduce the 25 percent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. "At this point, it is difficult to say with certainty whether they can be concluded by July 8," Lee said.

He explained that the government is looking for areas where both sides can agree and emphasized that they are "actively identifying and developing many agenda items." Lee avoided sharing specific details, calling them diplomatically sensitive.

Meanwhile, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo is preparing to visit Washington this weekend to speed up the discussions. He plans to meet US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and other officials. This would be Yeo's second visit since he took office last month.

During his previous visit, Yeo underlined South Korea’s commitment to “good-faith” negotiations.

On another front, President Lee highlighted a move toward peace with North Korea. He mentioned suspending loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts along the border as a goodwill step to promote dialogue. Lee expressed hope that this act could create a "virtuous cycle of peace" and open paths for communication and coexistence on the Korean Peninsula.

The outcome of the trade talks is crucial for both nations, and all eyes are on whether an agreement can be reached before the set deadline.