Seoul’s Presidential office announced on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, that ongoing tariff discussions with the United States have reached an impasse. Despite the slowdown, President Lee Jae Myung remains steadfast, vowing not to compel South Korean businesses into unfavorable trade agreements by hastily concluding a deal.
Both nations have encountered significant hurdles in finalizing a comprehensive trade agreement, which was initially outlined in July. Key specifics, particularly regarding a substantial $350 billion investment fund, are still undergoing intricate negotiations.
“We are not in a position to accede to every demand made by the U.S.,” a Presidential official stated on Tuesday. “While President Lee is keen to secure an agreement promptly, he is resolute in upholding our national interests, unwilling to compromise merely to meet a predetermined deadline.”
Currently, South Korea’s chief trade negotiator, Yeo Han-koo, is in the United States, diligently working on these crucial follow-up tariff negotiations.
As reported by the Yonhap News Agency, Mr. Yeo informed reporters on Monday, September 15, that Seoul and Washington are actively engaged in “intensive” discussions to finalize the trade deal, emphasizing that “the devil is truly in the details.”