Washington: US President Donald Trump announced an increase in reciprocal tariffs and auto duties on South Korea, raising them to 25% from the previous 15%. Trump made this announcement through Truth Social, emphasizing the importance of trade agreements to the United States. He outlined that the US has consistently adhered to reducing tariffs as per agreed terms and expects the same from its trading partners. However, he pointed out that the South Korean legislature has not been fulfilling its obligations.

According to Qatar News Agency, Trump expressed his frustration by highlighting that a significant trade agreement was reached with South Korean President Lee on July 30, 2025, which was reaffirmed during Trump's visit to Korea on October 29, 2025. Despite these agreements, the Korean legislature has not enacted the historic trade agreement, which Trump stated is within their rights. Consequently, this inaction has led him to impose higher tariffs on automobiles, lumber, pharmaceuticals, and other reciprocal tariffs, elevating them from 15% to 25%.

The Korean presidential office has responded, indicating that they have not received any official notification regarding Trump's tariff increase. The office communicated through a press notice issued by Yonhap News Agency, saying, "There has been no official notification or explanation of the details from the US government so far."