S. Korea's envoy says U.S. to honor tariff deal, manage Coupang issue stably

South Korean Ambassador to the U.S. Kang Kyung-wha has asserted that the United States intends to honor the existing tariff agreement between the two nations. This comes amid concerns raised by some in the U.S. political sphere regarding potential additional tariff measures.

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The U.S. has also expressed its intention to adhere to the existing South Korea-U.S. tariff agreement.

Kang addressed recent controversies surrounding the e-commerce giant Coupang, which faced scrutiny from the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. The committee released a report alleging discriminatory regulation of Coupang by the South Korean government. Kang stated that a consensus has been reached to manage this issue stably, ensuring it does not negatively impact overall South Korea-U.S. relations. The South Korean government maintains that the regulations applied to Coupang are based on domestic laws, enforced without discrimination based on the company's nationality. The embassy plans to present counterarguments to the U.S. Congress, consolidating positions from relevant ministries.

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There is a consensus that we should manage the Coupang issue stably so that it does not become a burden on South Korea-U.S. relations.

Beyond trade and regulatory matters, Ambassador Kang highlighted advancements in crucial areas of bilateral cooperation. She confirmed that discussions are underway to accelerate the implementation of agreements reached between the leaders concerning nuclear and submarine cooperation, with follow-up meeting schedules being coordinated. Progress is also being made in the shipbuilding sector, building on a memorandum of understanding signed in May. The U.S. is reportedly exploring collaboration opportunities, including requesting information from South Korean shipbuilders regarding naval vessel construction capabilities.

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From our perspective, we are emphasizing that the balance of interests between the two countries must be maintained according to the existing South Korea-U.S. tariff agreement.

On the issue of North Korea, Kang acknowledged that despite some expectations for renewed dialogue, no concrete progress has been made. South Korea is closely monitoring North Korea's participation and messaging at upcoming ASEAN-related foreign ministers' meetings. The ambassador emphasized continued close communication between Seoul and Washington to foster conditions conducive to inter-Korean and U.S.-North Korea dialogue, with both nations acting as 'peace maker' and 'pace maker'.

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The embassy will continue to explain our government's position clearly and consistently through ongoing consultations with the U.S.