Jinseongjun "Han Deok-su, Concerns Over Generous Negotiations with the US Due to Presidential Ambition"

Pointed Out at the Democratic Party's Floor Strategy Meeting
"Important Trade Negotiations Must Be Discussed with the National Assembly"

Jin Seong-jun, the Policy Committee Chairman of the Democratic Party of Korea, expressed concerns on the 15th about the United States prioritizing trade negotiations with South Korea. He warned that Prime Minister and Acting President Han Duck-soo might face unexpected difficulties if he acts hastily.

At the Democratic Party's floor strategy meeting held at the National Assembly that day, Chairman Jin said, "The U.S. government has selected our government as a top priority country for trade negotiations," adding, "It seems they believe they can gain an advantage in the negotiations and maximize their national interests due to our political uncertainty."

He also expressed concern about Acting President Han's proactive approach to trade talks with the U.S. Jin stated, "Whether he is aware of the U.S.'s intentions and judgments or not, Acting President Han is trying to rush the negotiations," and added, "It is not desirable for him to take the lead."

Park Chan-dae, Acting Party Leader and Floor Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, is speaking at the floor strategy meeting held at the National Assembly on the 15th. Photo by Kim Hyun-min

He continued, "There is little reason to rush negotiations amid the rapidly changing U.S. tariff policies." Chairman Jin also emphasized, "We should heed the warning from Professor Jang Ha-joon of the University of London’s Economics Department, who pointed out that clinging to the U.S. could lead to trouble." In an interview with Kyunghyang Shinmun the previous day, Professor Jang said that "clinging to President Trump and trade negotiations could result in trouble." He argued, "From a national standpoint, isn't the FTA effectively terminated?" and insisted, "We need to reduce its importance as soon as possible."

Chairman Jin also criticized Acting President Han for mentioning the 90-day suspension of the application of the reciprocal relationship after a phone call with President Trump. He said, "He is engaging in media play due to political ambitions to run in the presidential election," and pointed out, "There are even concerns that this could lead to a one-sided concession in the negotiations." He added, "Major trade negotiations should be conducted in consultation with the National Assembly," and stated, "The negotiation process must be fully disclosed to the public. Mexico succeeded by doing so."