Acting President Han Duck-soo of South Korea emphasized the need to overcome trade barriers by July, coinciding with the conclusion of U.S. trade talks. His statement underlines the importance of resolving any obstacles to ensure successful trade negotiations and foster improved economic relations between South Korea and the United States.

Instead of retreating, South Korea is accelerating trade liberalization, with agreements signed with dozens of countries since 2018.

A senior South Korean government official ruled out on Monday (Apr 28) that Seoul would agree to a trade package with Washington by the time the country holds a presidential election on Jun 3, and flagged challenges to reaching a deal even before early July.