Trump Announces 25% Tariff Increase on South Korean Goods President Donald Trump posted on Monday that reciprocal and automobile duties on South Korean exports will rise from the current 15 percent to 25 percent, citing the Korean legislature’s failure to complete the domestic process for the bilateral trade agreement [1][2]. The announcement was made via his personal social‑media account without accompanying diplomatic briefings. The proposed hike targets a broad range of Korean products, especially automobiles.

South Korean Government Reports No Official U.S. Notification The presidential office (Cheong Wa Dae) issued a press notice on Jan. 27 stating it has not received any formal notice, explanation, or detailed paperwork from the United States regarding the tariff change [1][2]. Both reports emphasize the absence of an official communication channel such as a Federal Register notice or diplomatic cable. This lack of formal notice limits Seoul’s ability to assess the legal basis of the increase.

Inter‑Agency Response Planned by Policy Chief Kim Yong‑beom Kim Yong‑beom, the presidential chief of staff for policy, will convene an inter‑agency meeting to draft South Korea’s response, involving relevant ministries and agencies [1][2]. The meeting aims to evaluate possible diplomatic, legal, and economic counter‑measures. Officials intend to coordinate a unified stance before the industry minister’s U.S. visit.

Industry Minister Kim Jung‑kwan to Seek Talks with U.S. Commerce Secretary While in Canada, Industry Minister Kim Jung‑kwan plans to travel to the United States promptly to discuss the tariff announcement with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick [1][2]. The talks will focus on clarifying the tariff scope and exploring mitigation options for affected Korean industries. The minister’s outreach signals Seoul’s intent to engage directly despite the missing formal notice.

Tariff Move Linked to Unpassed Korean Trade Bill and July Deal Context Trump’s justification references a Korean trade bill submitted in November that has not yet been passed by the National Assembly, tying the tariff hike to the stalled legislative process [1]. The July 2025 trade deal, finalized at President Lee Jae Myung’s October summit, included a $350 billion investment commitment, U.S. approval for Korean nuclear‑powered submarines, and retroactive reduction of auto tariffs to 15 percent effective Nov. 1 [1]. This background, absent from the second report, provides insight into the broader strategic stakes.