In a recent development that has sent shockwaves across global markets, US President Donald Trump has threatened to significantly increase tariffs on South Korean exports. The move comes amidst escalating tensions between the two nations, with Trump accusing Seoul of failing to honor a trade agreement.
According to a report by France 24, President Trump has warned that tariffs on South Korean goods could be raised to 25 percent, up from the current rate of 15 percent. This decision has raised concerns about the potential impact on trade relations between the US and South Korea, one of Washington’s key Asian allies.
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump alleged that the South Korean legislature “is not living up to its obligations,” prompting the need for a tariff hike. This move has been met with criticism from South Korean officials and business leaders, who fear the economic repercussions of such a decision.
The New York Times reported that President Trump’s announcement has sparked renewed tensions between the two nations, with Seoul being accused of not moving fast enough to implement the trade agreement. The deal, which was reached in July, calls for South Korea to invest billions in the United States, a commitment that Trump claims has not been fulfilled.
The Washington Post highlighted that the proposed tariff increase would impact a wide range of South Korean products, including cars, lumber, pharmaceuticals, and other items. Despite the trade deal reached last year, President Trump expressed impatience with the slow progress in ratifying the agreement, leading to his decision to raise tariffs.
The Washington Times emphasized that President Trump’s decision reflects his frustration with the delay in approving the bilateral trade deal with South Korea. The move is seen as a strong-arm tactic to push Seoul into fulfilling its commitments under the agreement, even at the risk of sparking a trade war.
In response to these developments, South Korean officials have expressed their concerns about the potential impact on their economy and the broader implications for global trade. The situation remains fluid, with both sides weighing their options in the face of escalating tensions.
In conclusion, President Trump’s decision to raise tariffs on South Korean goods has reignited trade tensions between the two nations. The move has raised concerns about the future of US-South Korea trade relations and the broader implications for global commerce. As the situation continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how both countries navigate this challenging period of uncertainty.
Political Bias Index: Neutral
References:
1. Internewscast Journal – [Link]https://internewscast.com/world-news/trump-withdraws-canadas-invite-to-peace-board-amidst-european-leader-boycott/
2. France 24 – [Link]https://www.france24.com/en/asia-pacific/20260127-trump-threatens-to-raise-tariffs-on-south-korean-goods-to-25-percent
3. USNN News – [Link]https://www.usnn.news/trump-says-reciprocal-tariffs-on-south-korea-will-be-raised-to-25-percent/
4. The New York Times – [Link]https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/27/world/asia/korea-trump-higher-tariff.html
5. The Washington Post – [Link]https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2026/01/27/trump-south-korea-trade-tariffs/
6. The Washington Times – [Link]https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2026/jan/27/trump-plans-raise-tariffs-south-korean-goods-15-25-citing-impatience/
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