South Korea's President Lee Jae-myung, marking his first 30 days in office, told reporters on Thursday that finalizing a trade deal with the United States by the July 8 deadline may be out of reach. The talks on so-called reciprocal tariffs, set by U.S. President Donald Trump, have proven more complex than initially expected.
Lee said details remain undecided and that unpredictable variables—including the simplest of words—could shift the course of negotiations. “It's difficult to predict whether both parties can wrap up talks by July 8,” he noted, adding that Seoul is working hard to secure a mutually beneficial outcome.
Beyond trade, Lee outlined a pragmatic foreign policy approach. He emphasized a national interest–centered diplomacy that protects peace and citizens' lives through a strong South Korea–United States alliance, close cooperation with the U.S. and Japan, and a rapid improvement of relations with the Chinese mainland and Russia.
As the clock ticks toward the tariff deadline, businesses and analysts are watching closely. A breakthrough could stabilize economic ties, while a delay may raise uncertainties for exporters and importers on both sides of the Pacific.
With less than two weeks to go, all eyes are on the negotiation table—and on Lee's next moves to bridge divergent demands and keep the deadline alive.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
