South Korea Cannot Afford $350 Billion Upfront for US Tariff Deal, Aide States

Tariff Deal Stalemate

• 🇰🇷 South Korea is unable to meet President Trump's demand for a $350 billion upfront investment as part of a tariff deal.
• 💡 The proposed deal aims to reduce US tariffs on South Korean goods from 25% to 15%.

Financial Concerns

• ⚠️ Seoul's National Security Adviser stated that the upfront sum is realistically unmanageable and could trigger a financial crisis.
• 💰 The initial pledge of $350 billion was intended to be structured as loans, guarantees, and equity, not a single upfront payment.

Seeking Alternatives and Future Negotiations

• 💬 South Korea is actively discussing alternative solutions with the US to finalize the trade agreement.
• 🤝 Both nations aim to reach a final trade deal during the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, which South Korea will host.