U.S. to impose 15% reciprocal and auto tariffs on South Korean exports

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that South Korea’s reciprocal and auto tariff rate will be set at 15%, averting a steeper 25% levy ahead of the 1 August deadline.

The announcement follows intense trade negotiations between Washington and Seoul in recent weeks, as South Korea sought to avoid the full 25% tariff that had been threatened by the United States.

The agreed 15% rate brings South Korea in line with Japan, which signed a similar trade deal earlier this month. South Korean officials had previously indicated they were pushing for parity with Japan’s terms.

The deal covers key export sectors including automobiles, steel, and semiconductors. It is seen as a strategic compromise aimed at maintaining stability in the high-tech supply chain and avoiding disruption in trade flows between the two allies.

South Korean Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol and Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo had led a high-level delegation to Washington in the final push for the agreement. President Lee Jae Myung earlier said the talks were "not very easy," but necessary to protect South Korea’s industrial base.

Details of Seoul’s concession package are expected to include increased cooperation in shipbuilding, green energy, and advanced tech sectors, along with a potential multi-billion-dollar investment pledge by South Korean conglomerates.

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