South Korea says priority in US negotiations to delay tariffs

South Korea’s finance minister said Tuesday that Seoul will seek to delay U.S. tariffs for as long as possible, as negotiations with Washington continue amid mounting pressure on the country’s export-dependent economy.

South Korea’s Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok said on Tuesday that the government will work to postpone the implementation of reciprocal U.S. tariffs for as long as possible, as Seoul navigates negotiations with Washington amid growing uncertainty for its export-driven economy.

South Korea is among the countries with which U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has confirmed Washington plans to hold tariff discussions. Although President Donald Trump imposed 25% reciprocal tariffs, their implementation has been temporarily paused.

Speaking in parliament, Choi emphasized that delaying the tariffs is a top priority in order to reduce the risks facing South Korean businesses in the global marketplace.

“From our national interest perspective, the goal is to negotiate thoroughly and conclude the matter under the current administration,” Choi said in response to a question from a lawmaker regarding Seoul’s strategy.

South Korea is set to elect a new president in a snap election on June 3, following the recent removal of President Yoon Suk Yeol after his controversial martial law declaration.

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