Government Submits Opinion to U.S.: "Semiconductor Import Restrictions Could Harm Investment in U.S."

The South Korean government submitted a written opinion to the U.S. Department of Commerce on May 6 (local time) regarding the national security investigation into imports of semiconductors and semiconductor manufacturing equipment under Section 232 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act.

Section 232 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act allows the United States to take measures such as import restrictions if certain imports are deemed to threaten national security.

Previously, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced on April 1 that it would launch an investigation into these items and begin a 21-day public comment period starting April 16. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy shared details of the investigation with the industry through public-private joint response meetings and analyzed the potential impact of possible measures to prepare this opinion letter.

In its opinion, the ministry emphasized the trade balance between South Korea and the United States in the semiconductor and manufacturing equipment sectors. It expressed concern that import restrictions could negatively affect not only the expansion of AI infrastructure within the United States, but also South Korean semiconductor companies' investments in the U.S. market. The ministry particularly stressed that Korean-made semiconductors and equipment do not pose significant negative effects on U.S. security or supply chain stability, and requested special consideration for South Korea.

An official from the ministry stated, "We will continue to closely consult with the United States through all available channels and do our utmost to minimize any damage to our companies," adding, "We also plan to maintain close communication with the industry and continue public-private joint outreach activities toward the United States."