High-Stakes Diplomacy: Trade Talks Tense Between US and South Korea

President Donald Trump faces challenging trade negotiations with South Korea during his Asia tour. The main sticking point is Trump's demand for a South Korean investment in the US, which Korean officials argue could destabilize their economy. Meanwhile, US relations with Japan are flourishing thanks to a $490 billion investment deal.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Gyeongju | Updated: 29-10-2025 02:56 IST | Created: 29-10-2025 02:56 IST
High-Stakes Diplomacy: Trade Talks Tense Between US and South Korea
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President Donald Trump is encountering a more complex diplomatic landscape as he enters negotiations with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. Unlike in Japan, South Korea's agreement to a $350 billion investment in the United States remains elusive, due to concerns of potential economic destabilization.

The summit, taking place in Gyeongju during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meeting, underscores the challenging nature of international trade negotiations. As Trump and Lee discuss terms, the spotlight remains on how South Korea can navigate demands without jeopardizing its economy.

Significant attention also focuses on other potential diplomatic engagements, including meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and possibly, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, marking a critical point in Trump's strategic Asia tour.

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