Seoul: South Korea’s Acting President Lee Ju-ho said Wednesday that the tariffs imposed by the US created a ‘serious’ situation for his country, underscoring that Seoul will proceed with negotiations with Washington ‘in an orderly manner,’ the Korea Herald reported.

According to Anadolu Agency, the government will coordinate closely across ministries under the responsibility of the minister in charge of trade policy to handle discussions with the US. This was emphasized during a high-level economic security strategy meeting in Seoul, convened to evaluate the ongoing tariff negotiations.

The acting president highlighted that recent tariff actions, driven by changes in US trade policy, have resulted in a serious and ongoing situation. He assured that the talks will be conducted responsibly, with a primary focus on national interest.

Lee Ju-ho reaffirmed the government’s commitment to mitigating public anxiety and shielding South Korean industries from a volatile trade environment. He vowed to protect the country’s economic interests amid the challenges posed by the US tariffs.

The trade talks between Seoul and Washington continue after the Trump administration initially imposed a 25% tariff on South Korea. This tariff was temporarily reduced to 10% for a period of 90 days, lasting until July 8.