[Reporter’s Notebook] Korea-US 2+2 Talks: No Room for Submissive Diplomacy

"Those who respect themselves are always respected by others."

This phrase, frequently cited in Chinese diplomatic discourse, goes beyond a simple proverb to capture the essence of diplomacy. Whether in diplomacy or negotiations, the moment one lowers oneself, one's bargaining power inevitably diminishes as well. Rather than overpowering the other side, maintaining one's own dignity and self-restraint is the true path of diplomacy. However, at the heart of all these principles lies self-respect. Diplomacy begins not with the strengths or weaknesses of the other party, but with the weight one carries oneself.

Reflecting on the recent remarks made by Acting President and Prime Minister Han Ducksoo in interviews with outlets such as the Financial Times (FT), this saying comes to mind. Regarding the United States' high tariff measures, he stated, "We will not retaliate." He also expressed gratitude for past U.S. support in areas such as security and technology transfer, adding that "the ROK-U.S. alliance is a true alliance."

South Korea is undoubtedly a strategic partner of the United States. However, trade is a different matter. Alliance is the language of security, but trade is the language of national interest. While the statement that South Korea "will not retaliate with tariffs," even at the cost of economic loss, may be easily framed as diplomatic goodwill, it could also be interpreted by the other side as a signal that "they can push further." In reality, the United States has imposed reciprocal tariffs of 25% on Korean automobiles, steel, and semiconductors, with some tariffs deferred for 90 days. Key export items for South Korea are taking a direct hit.

The economy cannot be explained by the logic of power alone. However, trade is clearly an area where calculations of national interest are fundamental. For South Korea to confidently raise issues based on trade rules and demand its legitimate interests is not "anti-Americanism" but a matter of "sovereignty."

The second Trump administration in the United States is pursuing a "politics of tariffs" with no exceptions for allies, under the pretext of protecting its own industries. In this context, "submissive diplomacy" may bring short-term stability, but in the long run, it could provide grounds for normalizing unfair deals. In fact, some industries have expressed concerns that "since South Korea does not push back, it is being pushed around more easily than Japan or the EU."

This is not a call for unconditional retaliation. Rather, it is about maintaining room for negotiation and preserving at least the minimum cards and stance. Speaking as if preemptively surrendering, without even the minimum posture of checks and balances, is precisely what undermines the essence of negotiation. A strong partnership begins with an equal relationship and can only be sustained on the basis of real balance.

On April 24, the "2+2 High-Level Economic Dialogue" between the finance and trade ministers of South Korea and the United States will take place. Outwardly, both sides will speak of mutual respect, cooperation, and win-win outcomes, but in reality, it is a tug-of-war over national interests. The United States is likely to weigh maintaining tariffs or granting conditional exemptions in exchange for South Korea expanding LNG imports, cooperating in shipbuilding, or easing certain technology transfer restrictions. This issue is not simply a matter of a few percentage points in tariffs; it could become a critical turning point that redefines South Korea's position in the global supply chain.

Whether Acting President Han's interview with foreign media remains a polite diplomatic statement or is remembered as a declaration that diminished South Korea's standing will depend on the ability of the negotiating team. It is time to recall that a true alliance is not forged by bowing one's head, but by being able to meet each other's gaze as equals.