South Korea Pushes for Fair Trade Deal with U.S. Amid Tariff Deadline

South Korean negotiators are racing to secure a trade package with the U.S. that matches or exceeds the terms granted to Japan, which secured a 15% tariff cap. With a 25% tariff looming next Thursday, Seoul's delegation is under intense pressure to finalize an agreement before the deadline.

Shipbuilding cooperation has emerged as a key focus in the talks, following discussions between U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan. Despite postponing a broader meeting with finance and trade chiefs, both sides have committed to reaching a deal.

The urgency is palpable. National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac and Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo are already in the U.S. for direct negotiations. Failure to secure a favorable agreement could severely impact South Korea's exports to the American market.