TRADE WAR ALERT: Trump Raises South Korea Tariffs to 25% — Cars, Electronics & Medicine Prices Could Jump 🇺🇸🇰🇷 💬 Is Trump right to crack down—or will Americans pay the price? 👉 Comment • Share • React

President Donald Trump said Monday he is increasing U.S. tariffs on South Korean goods to 25% from 15%, arguing Seoul has failed to fully implement a recently announced trade agreement. The decision matters because South Korea is a major U.S. trading partner and higher tariffs could raise prices on imported vehicles, electronics, and industrial materials.

In a Truth Social post, Trump said the move follows delays by South Korea’s legislature in enacting the agreement. “Because the Korean Legislature hasn’t enacted our Historic Trade Agreement, I am hereby increasing South Korean tariffs,” he wrote. The White House has not clarified when the higher tariffs would take effect.

The increase applies to autos, lumber, pharmaceuticals, and other goods subject to reciprocal tariffs. The action signals a tougher enforcement posture on trade commitments and could disrupt supply chains tied to the U.S. auto and technology sectors.

South Korean officials said they plan to respond “calmly” and reaffirmed their willingness to meet U.S. trade terms. Seoul is accelerating diplomatic efforts, with senior trade and industry officials scheduling meetings in Washington this week.

U.S. Commerce Department data shows South Korea exported $132 billion in goods to the United States in 2024. Markets reacted quickly, with South Korea’s Kospi index briefly falling and Hyundai shares declining.

The move follows earlier tariff threats by Trump and comes as a Supreme Court case could limit presidential authority to impose broad country-specific tariffs.