South Korea and US to Begin Working-Level Talks on Tariffs This Week

South Korea and the United States will begin working-level talks on tariffs later this week. Officials from both countries will meet to discuss trade issues and find ways to reduce trade tensions. These talks aim to improve cooperation and strengthen the economic relationship between the two countries.

The talks will focus mainly on tariffs—special taxes placed on imported goods. In recent years, both countries have raised concerns about some of these taxes. South Korea wants the US to lower or remove certain tariffs on Korean products, especially steel and electric vehicles. At the same time, the US wants South Korea to open its market further for American goods.

Officials from South Korea’s trade ministry will meet their US counterparts to start the discussions. The teams will review existing trade policies, share data, and look for areas where they can agree. Both sides said they will try to solve problems through dialogue instead of taking legal action or raising more tariffs.

A South Korean trade official said, “We want to reduce trade barriers and build a fair system that helps both countries. These talks will help us better understand each other’s concerns.”

The US has also welcomed the talks. American trade officials said they want to protect US businesses but also maintain a strong trade partnership with South Korea. “We are ready to work together and find a path that supports our workers and industries,” a US official stated.

Trade between the two countries is very important. The US is one of South Korea’s largest trading partners, and both countries depend on each other for key goods like electronics, cars, and machinery. By holding these talks, both governments hope to make trade smoother and more balanced.

The results of these discussions could lead to changes in current tariffs or the creation of new agreements. If successful, the talks could also set an example for how other countries can solve trade disputes peacefully.