Wi Sung-lak, the National Security Chief of the Blue House, stated that while there is a possibility of the United States imposing additional tariffs on South Korea under Section 301 of the Trade Act, the tariffs will not exceed the rates previously agreed upon by the two countries.
During a briefing at the Blue House on July 22, Wi responded to related questions by saying, "I think there could be additional tariffs on us due to the Section 301 issue." However, he emphasized, "Generally, we understand that even if there are Section 301 measures, they will not exceed the significant tariff rates agreed upon between South Korea and the U.S."
The U.S. government has been using Section 301, often referred to as 'Super 301,' to pressure surrounding countries with tariff measures. This section allows for retaliatory tariffs if foreign unfair or discriminatory trade practices are deemed burdensome to U.S. commerce.
Wi pointed out that countries failing to effectively block imports of products made with forced labor could face additional tariffs of 10% or 12.5%. South Korea is included in the group facing the 12.5% tariff alongside China and Japan.
He also cited the recent imposition of a 50% tariff on Canada as an example of the U.S. utilizing Section 338 of the Trade Act, a provision that has rarely been used. Wi noted, "Since provisions that have rarely been activated are being applied, there could be various movements regarding tariff imposition," while adding, "We are holding several meetings and explaining the necessary responses and data."
Regarding the Coupang issue, the Blue House stated, "There seems to be a difference in the starting point for resolving the issue with the U.S.," and emphasized that it should be handled fairly and non-discriminatorily according to legal procedures.
Wi remarked, "The biggest issue among various U.S.-Korea matters is investment, and the next significant issue is Coupang. This matter is being addressed according to specific regulations and legal procedures. It is not being treated discriminatorily or targeted."
He explained that the Personal Information Protection Commission has investigated and reported a significant data breach involving over 33 million individuals. However, he noted that some are downplaying the breach, citing only 3,000 cases based on statements from a suspect, highlighting a substantial discrepancy in perspectives.
Wi added, "In the U.S., this would be equivalent to the personal information of 200 million people being leaked, which is not a simple matter if the locations of the breaches are unknown."
He stressed that the most important aspect of addressing this issue is through the established regulations and legal procedures, stating, "If lobbying or other means occur outside of this framework, it could undermine the legitimacy of the existing legal processes, so it must be handled fairly and non-discriminatorily according to legal procedures."
However, Wi asserted that issues like Coupang do not impact security matters. He stated, "While there are various U.S.-Korea issues, there are no signs that security discussions are being delayed due to Coupang or similar matters. In the past, such situations occurred, but that is not the case now. Investment discussions are ongoing, and efforts are being made to visualize the outcomes."
Regarding the temporary return of South Korean Ambassador to the U.S. Kang Kyung-wha, Wi noted, "I understand she came back at a time when we could discuss U.S.-Korea issues comprehensively."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.