U.S.-South Korea $350B Investment Fund Talks Stall Amid Trade Policy Dispute
Negotiations between the U.S. and South Korea over a $350 billion investment fund have reached an impasse, with Seoul rejecting terms similar to those accepted by Japan in its recent $550 billion commitment. Kim Yong-beom, South Korea’s director of national policy, emphasized the structural differences between the two economies and warned of potential disruptions to the foreign exchange market.
The stalemate threatens collateral agreements, including the Make Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA) initiative aimed at revitalizing U.S. shipbuilding. Seoul remains focused on securing robust fund management mechanisms and profit-sharing terms, reflecting deeper concerns about financial sovereignty under the proposed framework.