Amb. Kang Emphasizes 'Friendly Atmosphere' With U.S. on Tariff Agreements Amid Recent Uncertainties

Why It Matters

Maintaining a cooperative tone could mitigate disruptive tariffs on South Korean firms, especially tech giant Coupang, and preserve broader U.S.–Korea economic and security ties.

Key Takeaways

• Ambassador Kang pledges amicable US‑South Korea trade talks.
• US may launch Section 301 probe into Coupang data breach.
• Potential new tariffs could affect Korean e‑commerce sector.
• Refund details for previously paid reciprocal tariffs under review.
• Security cooperation on submarines continues alongside trade discussions.

Pulse Analysis

The United States and South Korea are navigating a delicate phase in their trade relationship after a Supreme Court decision invalidated reciprocal tariffs. Ambassador Kang Kyung‑wha’s public commitment to a "friendly atmosphere" signals Seoul’s strategic push to avoid escalation while still defending its commercial interests. By emphasizing open communication, the embassy hopes to influence any forthcoming U.S. tariff adjustments and ensure that Korean exporters receive clear guidance on refund processes for duties already paid.

A focal point of the current tension is the potential Section 301 investigation targeting Coupang over a recent data breach. Section 301 probes assess whether foreign practices unfairly harm U.S. commerce, and a finding could trigger additional duties on Korean e‑commerce exports. Korean officials must therefore coordinate closely with Washington, presenting a unified stance to mitigate punitive measures. The outcome will likely set a precedent for how digital‑service firms are treated in future trade disputes, influencing investment decisions across the region.

Beyond commerce, the two allies continue to deepen security collaboration, notably through a Joint Fact Sheet covering nuclear‑powered submarines and energy projects. Ambassador Kang positions the embassy as a diplomatic conduit, expediting these agreements while the South Korean legislature debates a Special Act on U.S. investment. This dual focus on trade and defense underscores the intertwined nature of economic and strategic interests, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a cooperative bilateral environment.

Original Description

美, 쿠팡관련 무역법 301조 조사 가능성 관세로 직결될진 미지수

Amid global trade uncertainties due to U.S. tariffs South Korea is making sure the bilateral relationship remains friendly as the two work out a deal.

South Korea's ambassador to the U.S. said she is closely monitoring the U.S. president's latest tariff measures to protect South Korean interests.

Our Kim Do-yeon reports.

South Korean Ambassador to the United States Kang Kyung-wha says Seoul will actively work with Washington to ensure trade discussions proceed in a "friendly atmosphere."

Speaking to correspondents in Washington on Tuesday local time, Kang addressed the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling that declared reciprocal tariffs illegal, and the Trump administration's subsequent move to levy new global tariffs.

She emphasized that the embassy is closely monitoring the Trump administration's follow-up measures including additional tariffs to protect South Korean interests.

We will provide support so that consultations with the U.S. can proceed in an amicable atmosphere. Regarding the refund of reciprocal tariffs already paid, which was not clearly addressed in the ruling, we will ensure accurate information is delivered to our companies in a timely manner.

Meanwhile, observers in Washington suggest the U.S. Trade Representative could launch a Section 301 investigation of Coupang's data breach case and also the Korean government's investigation of the company.

That comes as interim Coupang CEO Harold Rogers attended a closed-door House hearing in Washington on Monday.

A Section 301 looks for potential foreign trade practices that are deemed unfair, discriminatory, or restrictive to U.S. commerce, which could lead to additional retaliatory tariffs.

However, diplomatic sources note that even if a probe begins next month, it requires hearing the Korean government's position.

On the security front, Seoul and Washington are continuing discussions on implementing their "Joint Fact Sheet," which covers cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines and nuclear energy.

Ambassador Kang affirmed that the embassy will act as a bridge to expedite these agreements, pending the passage of the Special Act on Investment in the U.S., currently in South Korea's National Assembly.

Kim Do-yeon, Arirang News.

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2026-02-25, 10:00 (KST)