Back to Washington, D.C. Just 11 Days After Early July Visit
Deputy Prime Minister Koo Yooncheol and Industry Minister Kim Jeonggwan Also Heading to the U.S. This Week
Seeking Last-Minute Common Ground Ahead of Tariff Deadline
National Security Advisor Wi Sunglak departed for the United States on July 20 to discuss key pending issues. This marks his second trip to the U.S. in just 11 days, following a previous four-day visit. His visit to Washington, D.C. is seen as an effort to advance what is being called a "package negotiation" encompassing both trade and security, ahead of the scheduled announcement of reciprocal tariffs on August 1. Newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance Koo Yooncheol, as well as Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeonggwan, are also expected to depart for the U.S. this week to join the tariff negotiations.
According to the presidential office and diplomatic sources on July 21, following Advisor Wi, Deputy Prime Minister Koo and Minister Kim are expected to leave for the U.S. as early as July 22. There is also a possibility that the "2+2 high-level consultative body" between the finance and trade chiefs will be reactivated. Woo Sangho, Senior Presidential Secretary for Political Affairs, said in a briefing at the presidential office in Yongsan the previous day, "Advisor Wi has left for the United States to conduct various negotiations with U.S. officials through multiple channels."
Advisor Wi is expected to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other trade officials to continue discussions on tariff negotiations and the schedule for a Korea-U.S. summit. In particular, with the U.S. set to impose reciprocal tariffs of up to 25% starting August 1, efforts are expected to focus on sharing detailed information and finding common ground. As President Lee has already met with Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Euisun and LG Group Chairman Koo Kwangmo to discuss response strategies, it is likely that investment plans will also be shared with the U.S. side.
The U.S. side is reportedly demanding the opening of the agricultural and livestock market, including the easing of online platform regulations and permitting the overseas export of high-precision maps. Issues such as the removal of the age limit on beef imports, expansion of rice import quotas, and opening of apple imports are said to be on the negotiation table.
Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun told reporters on his way to work that his plans to visit the U.S. "have not yet been decided" and that "the most appropriate timing is being discussed comprehensively with the U.S. side." Minister Cho added, "Tariff negotiations are often considered a zero-sum game, but based on experience, it can be a win-win."
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