In FT Interview, Han Ducksoo Says
"No Retaliation Against U.S. Tariffs"
Acting President and Prime Minister Han Ducksoo stated in an interview with foreign media on April 20 that he has "not yet made a decision" regarding a potential presidential run, adding, "No comment."
In the interview with the British daily Financial Times (FT) published on this day, Han said that South Korea "will not retaliate" against U.S. tariffs, and that the country is "seeking a mutually beneficial solution."
Han commented, "Our industrial capabilities, financial development, culture, growth, and wealth are thanks to the help of the United States," and assessed that "U.S. aid, technology transfer, investment, and security guarantees after the Korean War contributed significantly to making South Korea a very convenient investment environment for foreign investors."
Han also stated that "South Korea is willing to discuss reducing its trade surplus with the United States, including the purchase of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) and commercial aircraft," and added that "expanding cooperation in the naval shipbuilding sector could help strengthen the South Korea-U.S. alliance."
Regarding the possible resumption of defense cost-sharing negotiations, Han said, "At present, there is no clear framework for discussing security issues," but expressed his willingness to revisit the agreement signed last year with the Biden administration concerning the stationing of 28,500 U.S. troops in South Korea, depending on the nature of the issue.
Addressing concerns about serving as acting president without being elected, Han stated, "My authority derives from the Constitution and relevant laws, and there is no difference in the duties that can be performed by an acting president and an elected president."
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