SEOUL – South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has raised concerns that ongoing tariff negotiations with the United States are unsettling the country’s foreign exchange market. Speaking during a meeting with members of the US Congress in New York on Monday, President Lee acknowledged that talks surrounding import duties have triggered unease among financial stakeholders back home.
Despite the market jitters, Lee remained optimistic, emphasizing that both nations are working toward a resolution that maintains “commercial rationality” and serves mutual economic interests.
The bilateral meeting took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, where global leaders are convening to address pressing international issues. Lee’s comments reflect the broader economic sensitivities surrounding the trade negotiations, which aim to revise the tariff framework initially imposed during the Trump administration.
South Korea is currently pushing for a reduction in tariffs as part of a trade deal that could also see significant Korean investment flowing into the United States. However, Lee has previously cautioned that this deal could have implications for South Korea’s foreign exchange reserves—a concern now echoed more widely amid fluctuating market sentiments.
President Lee’s remarks underscore the delicate balance policymakers must strike between fostering international trade relations and safeguarding domestic financial stability. With foreign exchange markets reacting to the slightest policy shifts, the stakes are high not just for South Korea, but for global investors closely watching these developments.
In a world increasingly interconnected by trade, diplomacy, and finance, decisions made across oceans have ripple effects at home. President Lee’s caution is not just about numbers—it’s about the livelihoods of millions who depend on a stable economy. As talks continue, the hope is for outcomes that reflect fairness, foresight, and a shared commitment to economic resilience.
