Trump raises tariffs on imports from South Korea to 25%

Trump raises tariffs on imports from South Korea amid trade tensions

President Donald Trump raised tariffs on imports from South Korea to 25%.
He announced the decision on Truth Social with immediate effect.
Trump cited delays in South Korea’s trade agreement ratification as justification.
As a result, Washington escalated pressure on Seoul during sensitive negotiations.

The higher tariffs target cars, lumber, pharmaceutical products, and broader trade flows.
Meanwhile, US importers face higher costs across automotive and industrial supply chains.
Companies like Hyundai Motor and Kia may face margin pressure in the US market.
Therefore, metals demand linked to vehicle manufacturing could see short-term disruption.

Trade agreement delays trigger tariff response

The US and South Korea reached a trade agreement in late July 2025.
The deal set a 15% tariff on all South Korean imports.
It also required $350 billion in South Korean investment in the United States.
Additionally, Seoul committed to purchase $100 billion in US LNG and energy products.

The BBC reported that South Korea’s National Assembly received the agreement on November 26.
Lawmakers continue to review the document ahead of a possible February vote.
However, Seoul claims Washington failed to provide official notice of the tariff increase.
As a result, South Korea requested urgent consultations with US officials.

Diplomatic response and global trade implications

Industry Minister Kim Jong-kwan plans US meetings during his Canada visit.
He expects to meet Commerce Secretary Howard Luttin in Washington.
Meanwhile, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo plans talks with US Trade Representative Jamie Greer.
Both sides aim to de-escalate tensions affecting global commodity and metals markets.

Earlier, Trump reversed planned tariffs on the United Kingdom and EU members.
He linked that decision to their stance on Greenland.
Consequently, the European Parliament suspended US trade ratification in protest.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Trump raises tariffs on imports from South Korea during fragile commodity markets.
The move risks volatility across metals, autos, and battery material supply chains.
However, swift diplomacy could limit long-term pricing disruption.
SuperMetalPrice expects short-term uncertainty, followed by policy-driven market realignment.