Trump Increases Tariffs on South Korean Products to 25%

On January 27, 2026, US President Donald Trump revealed that he was increasing tariffs on products imported from South Korea. The adjustment raises the tariff on goods such as cars and pharmaceuticals from the previous rate of 15% to a substantial 25%.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump cited dissatisfaction with the South Korean legislature's failure to fulfill its commitments to the United States. He expressed his frustration, questioning why the South Korean legislature had not ratified what he described as a significant deal reached with President Lee Jae Myung on July 30, 2025, during a meeting.

While emphasizing that the trade agreement had been consolidated during his visit to Korea on October 29, 2025, Trump inquired about the legislative delays. He stated, "Why hasn’t the Korean Legislature approved it?" Furthermore, he pointed out that the absence of action from South Korea’s legislative body was their discretion, yet he felt compelled to take measures in response.

Consequently, Trump declared the raised tariffs, specifying that the higher rates would apply to automobiles, lumber, pharmaceuticals, and other reciprocal tariffs.

Following Trump’s announcement, reports from the South Korean presidency indicated that no formal communication or clarification regarding these changes had been received from the US government at that time.

The tariffs originally proposed by Trump in earlier negotiations set a rate of 25% on South Korean goods, which was later negotiated down to 15% in agreements made in mid-2025. Additionally, it is noted that South Korea has pledged to invest $350 billion into the U.S. economy over the coming years.

South Korea is a significant exporter to the U.S., featuring major brands such as Kia and Hyundai, in addition to semiconductors and other electronics.