Seoul seeks diplomatic path in tariff talks with Washington
South Korea does not intend to engage in open confrontation with the USA regarding the tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. Seoul is concentrating on negotiations and reaching an agreement with Washington, stated Han Duck-soo, the acting president of the country, in an exclusive interview with CNN.
Han emphasized that South Korea "clearly would like to negotiate" with the United States concerning the controversial tariffs. The politician expressed confidence that both countries can reach an agreement before factories are shut down in the Asian nation.
In South Korea's case, the rate of tariffs—referred to by Trump as "reciprocal"—that came into effect on Wednesday, is 25 percent.
Han, an experienced politician and economist, has been serving as the acting head of state since December of last year, following the suspension of President Yoon Suk Yeol.
When asked by CNN whether South Korea is considering cooperation with other countries, like Japan or China, to counter the American tariffs, Han replied "We will not take that route." "I don’t think that kind of fighting back will improve the situation dramatically," he emphasized.
"I think we should, in a very cool way, assess what this kind of 25% means for us, and we should, in a very cool way, negotiate with them," said Han.
As noted by CNN, this stance contrasts with recent reactions from the PRC, which is subject to tariffs totaling 104 percent. Beijing strongly condemned Washington's recent decisions, calling them a "mistake upon a mistake" and promising to "fight to the end."
In retaliation, China imposed tariffs of 10-15 percent on American imports—including agricultural equipment, coal, and oil in February, 10-15 percent on agri-food products in March, and then an additional 34 percent rate on all products in April.
A few hours after the CNN interview, Han had a phone conversation with Trump, which the American president described as a "great call."
In a social media statement, Trump conveyed that both leaders discussed many issues, including the "tremendous and unsustainable" trade surplus of South Korea with the USA, the purchase of American liquefied natural gas (LNG), and bilateral cooperation in shipbuilding.
Han's office informed that during the 28-minute conversation, the politician expressed hope for further development and strengthening of the alliance between Seoul and Washington during Trump's tenure, emphasizing that military cooperation is the "foundation" of South Korea's diplomacy and security.
