News

U.S. exempts automobiles from 25% tariffs on Mexico, Canada for 1 month

2025/03/06 10:00

In the meantime, Trump has granted a one-month exemption to automakers from the 25-percent tariffs on Mexico and Canada as part of efforts to protect American industries from economic harm. Lee Eun-hee reports. The United States announced on Wednesday that it would temporarily exempt automobiles from the 25-percent tariffs on Mexico and Canada for one month. According to White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt during a briefing, the decision followed conversations between President Trump and the heads of the big three automakers, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis. "But at the request of the companies associated with USMCA, the president is giving them an exemption for one month, so they are not at an economic disadvantage.'" The tariffs were implemented starting on March 4th, local time, with failure to deal with the trafficking of drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the U.S. cited as a reason. Earlier the same day, President Trump also spoke with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. In a social media post, Trump mentioned that he called Trudeau to discuss potential actions regarding the tariffs, and the call ended on a "somewhat friendly note." He added that he told Trudeau that Canada's efforts to curb the flow of fentanyl were not enough. Canada, which had swiftly imposed 25-percent tariffs on 20 billion U.S. dollars worth of U.S. imports in retaliation to the U.S. tariffs, took further action. On Wednesday, it officially filed a consultation request with the World Trade Organization, citing the unjustified U.S. tariffs on Canada. This means the disputing parties have sixty days to resolve the issue through consultations and if no agreement is reached, they can request a ruling from a WTO panel. Lee Eun-hee, Arirang News.

U.S. confirms additional N. Korean troops deployed to Russia to replace lost forces

2025/03/06 10:00

A U.S. defense ministry official has confirmed the additional deployment of North Korean troops to Russia. According to U.S.-funded news outlet Radio Free Asia on Thursday, the exact number of troops wasn't specified, but the official stated that they are intended to replace those killed on the front lines. On Wednesday, South Korea's National Intelligence Service said it is closely monitoring potential North Korea-Russia drone cooperation, amid speculation that North Korean troops are being trained by Russia in drone operations and tactics.

Extraordinary session starts at Nat'l Assembly amid expected standoff over key bills

2025/03/05 20:00

At the National Assembly. A special session for the month of March kicked off today with rival parties agreeing to host three plenary sessions every Thursday, starting next week. Heated debate is expected over pension reform, this year's supplementary budget, and a bill to bolster the chip industry. An equally fierce standoff is also likely over special prosecutor bills led by the opposition including one into allegations of stock manipulation by First Lady Kim Keon Hee. Also, a counsel bill passed by the parliament to look into President Yoon Suk Yeol and the first lady's alleged election interference through "self-styled" political broker Myung Tae-kyun will be put up for another vote if Acting President Choi Sang-mok vetoes it.

Zelenskyy ready to negotiate peace with Russia, sign minerals deal: Trump

2025/03/05 20:00

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed regret over his recent clash with U.S. President Trump amid growing pressure and reaffirmed his commitment to peace for the country against Russian aggression. Choi Min-jung has the latest. The U.S. and Ukraine seem to be on the road to repairing their relationship after last week's spat at the White House. In his first address to Congress since returning to power, U.S. President Donald Trump said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed willingness to negotiate. "Earlier today, I received an important letter from President Zelenskyy of Ukraine. The letter reads Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer." Trump also mentioned that he had engaged in substantial talks with Russia and had received clear indications that they are open to peace. "We've had serious discussions with Russia and have received strong signals that they are ready for peace Wouldn't that be beautiful? It's time to stop this madness. It's time to halt the killing. It's time to end this senseless war." Trump also acknowledged that Zelenskyy is ready to sign the much-debated minerals deal. Earlier on Tuesday, Zelenskyy also said Ukraine is ready to sign the deal, which grants the U.S. significant long-term rights to Ukraine's rare-earth minerals, in exchange for security assurances from Washington. It was left unsigned in last week's contentious meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy at the White House. Zelenskyy expressed regret over his recent clash with Trump. "We seek constructive cooperation and a true partnership. What happened at the White House instead of our planned negotiations is regrettable. But we must find the strength to move forward, respect one another — as we have always respected America, Europe, and all our partners — and work together to bring peace closer." The Ukrainian leader said that maintaining a normal, partnership relationship with the U.S. is crucial to ending the war, adding that no one wants an endless war. Zelenskyy also took to X on Tuesday, saying that he and his team are ready to work under Trump's "strong leadership" for lasting peace. The remarks from Zelenskyy came hours after President Trump had ordered all military aid to Ukraine to be cut off. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

U.S. President Donald Trump threatens Canada with reciprocal tariffs

2025/03/05 20:00

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has fired back at U.S. tariffs, and President Trump was quick to respond to the leader of the country deemed one of America's closest partners. Ahn Sung-jin reports. Canada, Mexico, and China have been gearing up for retaliatory measures after U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff impositions began on March 4th, local time. Trump cited the failure to hamper drug trafficking, especially fentanyl, into the U.S. as a major reason for the tariffs. However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau refuted the claim and said it is false to say that Canada was unwilling to help. Canada immediately imposed 25 percent tariffs on 20 billion U.S. dollars worth of U.S. imports and will pursue several non-tariff measures as well. "The United States launched a trade war against Canada, their closest partner and ally, their closest friend. But in the meantime, our tariffs will remain in place until the U.S. tariffs are withdrawn and not a moment sooner." Trump immediately fired back. He referred to Trudeau as "Governor Trudeau" and further added that retaliatory tariffs from Canada would only result in another round of immediate reciprocal tariffs increased by the same amount. Mexico said the U.S. import taxes had no justification and pledged to give details on retaliatory measures during the weekend, vowing to respond with tariff and non-tariff measures. "Nobody wins with this decision. On the contrary, it affects the people we represent." China is also expected to levy "import taxes" of 10 to 15 percent on some U.S. goods, including American beef, dairy, and agricultural products starting from March 10th. These retaliations came after Trump went forward with 25 percent tariff impositions on Canada and Mexico, as well as doubling tariffs on China to 20 percent. Despite concerns that these tit-for-tat tariff levies would escalate into a global trade war, Trump seemed prepared to double down on these impositions. "Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades, and now it's our turn to start using them against those other countries. Whatever they tax us, we will tax them." During his address to Congress on Tuesday, consumer confidence fell and stocks declined. As the U.S. will be levying tariffs on agricultural products as well, starting April 2nd, this could further startle the world economy and ignite tensions. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

Trump stresses trade protectionism in his speech to Congress

2025/03/05 20:00

Welcome to Within The Frame, where we bring the most pressing issues across the globe into focus, I'm Kim Mok-yeon. President Trump's first congressional address of his second term set the tone for his administration's priorities in 2025, touching on trade, foreign policy and national security. His speech sparked immediate reactions, with some praising his firm stance on economic nationalism while others criticized it as more political posturing than policy making. From his push to repeal the CHIPS Act to his remarks on South Korea's trade policies and his renewed focus on tariffs, Trump's agenda signals a shift toward a more protectionist and transactional approach. To break down Trump's latest speech and its broader implications, we invite Min Jeong-hun, Professor at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy into the studio with us. Welcome. We also connect to our Voice of America correspondent Chris Casquejo from Washington, D.C. Great to have you with us again. (CHRIS) 1. So Chris, President Trump's first congressional address of his second term concluded a matter of hours ago. What were the key themes of his speech, and how do they reflect his administration's broader strategy moving forward? (MIN) 2. What about you Professor Min? What were your biggest takeaways from Trump's speech? (CHRIS) 3. We hear several Democratic lawmakers boycotted the speech, calling it a MAGA rally rather than a policy address. Chris, how deep is the current political divide in Washington, and how could this affect the administration's ability to push its policies through Congress? (CHRIS) 4. One of the most anticipated topics was Trump's stance on Ukraine, especially as the speech came right after the mineral agreement collapsed. Let me first ask, how is the American public viewing the latest breakdown? (MIN) 5. Now to Prof.Min, Trump had suggested revisiting the Ukraine-U.S. mineral deal while criticizing past military aid efforts. He mentioned that relevant measures would be taken later this week. What signals does this send about the future of U.S. support to Ukraine? (CHRIS) 6. Tuesday marked the start of Trump's new tariff measures — 25% ---on Canadian and Mexican products, and an additional 10% on Chinese goods, along with forthcoming agricultural tariffs. Chris, how are businesses and policymakers responding? (MIN) 7. President Trump has also declared his intention to repeal the CHIPS Act, calling it a "terrible law." Given that this act was crucial in securing semiconductor investments in the U.S., what would be the potential economic and industrial consequences if it were repealed Prof.Min? (CHRIS) 8. Chris, could you also provide a recap of President Trump's remarks regarding South Korea? What exactly did he say? (MIN) 9. Professor Min, could you help fact-check his statements? Is it accurate that South Korea imposes tariffs four times higher than those imposed by the U.S.? As far as I understand, the free trade agreement between the two countries remains in effect. (MIN) 10. So given that Trump pinpointed that the U.S. is supporting South Korea's defense during his speech, should South Korea expect increased pressure on defense cost-sharing or trade concessions, and how can Seoul navigate its relationship with Washington while safeguarding its interests?

Trade ministry rebuts Trump's claim of S. Korea's average tariff being four times higher than U.S.

2025/03/05 20:00

Thank you for joining us. I'm Yoon Jung-min. U.S. President Donald Trump's first speech to Congress since returning to power covered a host of issues ranging from global tariffs to Ukraine, but perhaps the matter catching the eyes of people in this part of the world the most was his portrayal of Korea as a country with "unfair trade practices." Our Kim Bo-kyoung explains reactions to this here in Seoul. U.S. President Trump targeted some countries over what he called "unfair trade practices," specifically including South Korea. This was during his first address to a joint session of Congress since his inauguration in January on Tuesday local time. "South Korea's average tariff is four times higher. Think of that four times higher. And we give so much help militarily and in so many other ways to South Korea." Trump did not give specific evidence of his assertion, and South Korea's trade ministry was quick to rebut this. According to the trade ministry, Washington and Seoul have eliminated tariffs on most goods, under the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement that took effect in 2012, making its average tariff rate on imports from the U.S. stand at point-seven-nine percent in 2024. This rate is set to drop further this year in accordance with an annual tariff reduction plan stipulated in the agreement. For reference, the ministry added that the tariff rate on imported manufactured goods from the U.S. is zero-percent. In terms of what Trump said, the ministry assumed he would have been referring to Korea's most favored nation treatment tariff which stood at 13-point-4-percent in 2024, that is four times that of the U.S.'s 3-point-3-percent. But this rate, applies to WTO member countries without bilateral agreements, and thus is not applied to goods imported from the U.S. Amid such a potential tug of war on tariff schemes, Trump said he aims to "resurrect" America's shipbuilding industry, planning to offer special tax incentives to bring the industry back to the U.S., while also putting pressure on South Korea to participate in a natural gas pipeline project in Alaska. "My administration is also working on a gigantic natural gas pipeline in Alaska, among the largest in the world, where Japan, South Korea and other nations want to be our partner, with investments of trillions of dollars each." One expert says, however, that taking part in such projects would not be able to fully prevent Trump's reciprocal tariff scheme, and neither would the FTA be able to do it. "Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Colombia and actually did on Canada and Mexico. All three countries have FTAs with the U.S., so having an FTA does not necessarily mean Korea can avoid such a measure." Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.

S. Korea introduces new visa systems to attract global talent

2025/03/05 20:00

The South Korean government has announced plans to create new visa systems to attract overseas talent and boost industrial competitiveness. The 30th Foreign Policy Committee meeting, chaired by Acting President Choi Sang-mok on Wednesday, introduced the "Top-Tier" visa, set to be launched within this month. This visa is designed for professionals set to work in advanced tech companies in Korea. It guarantees an F-2 visa, a resident visa that allows employment and leads to permanent residency after three years, with benefits extended to their family members. The new "Youth's Dream in Korea" visa offers young people opportunities for cultural experiences, internships, and work in fields such as agriculture and manufacturing.

World News: Myanmar’s military leader visits Russia for discussions on cooperation with Putin

2025/03/05 17:00

This is The World Now, bringing you the latest stories around the globe. Russian President Vladimir Putin has held talks with Myanmar's military leader. The talks at the Kremlin on Tuesday mark Senior General Min Aung Hlaing's fourth visit to Russia since Myanmar's military seized power in February 2021, ousting the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. During the meeting, Putin highlighted the increase in trade with Myanmar's military government, and emphasized close cooperation on the international stage. Russia, alongside China, remains a key supporter and arms supplier to Myanmar's military government. Min Aung Hlaing, in turn, expressed his open support for Russia's military operations in Ukraine. Meanwhile, according to Russia's TASS news agency, Myanmar officials have been invited to attend Moscow's Victory Day Parade on May 9th. The euro rose to its highest level in 2025 fueled by expectations of increased European defense spending. The official currency of 20 European countries rose 0.5% against the U.S. dollar, on Tuesday reaching about 1.05 US dollars, its strongest level since December 10th of last year. That came after the European Commission announced plans to extend 150 billion euros, or 158 billion U.S. dollars in loans to boost defense budgets across the continent. Meanwhile, European stock markets tumbled amid concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies. The pan-European STOXX 600 index fell 2.1%, hitting its lowest level since August 2024. Investors fear that tariffs recently imposed on Canada, Mexico, and China could further weaken global economic growth and might also be extended to Europe. SpaceX's massive Starship rocket was set to launch on Monday, local time but the launch was called off due to technical issues just 40 seconds before liftoff. The rocket was scheduled for a test flight from South Texas, carrying four mock satellites. SpaceX said another launch attempt could be made as early as Tuesday if the issue is resolved quickly. In its previous test flight in January, Starship exploded over the Atlantic Ocean. NASA plans to use Starship for future crewed moon landings, while SpaceX CEO Elon Musk sees the rocket playing a key role in colonizing Mars. Runners with frying pans filled with pancakes took to the streets of central London to celebrate "Shrove Tuesday", also known as "Pancake Day." Hundreds of spectators gathered at Guildhall Yard, cheering on participants in the annual "Inter-Livery Pancake Race." This event is one of many held across the UK to mark the day before the start of Lent, the 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and repentance leading up to Easter. In the "Inter-Livery Race," teams representing traditional London guilds with nearly 1,000 years of history competed in costumes. The winners received a trophy and a frying pan as their prize. Yoon Se-young, Arirang News

Extraordinary session starts at Nat'l Assembly amid expected standoff over key bills

2025/03/05 17:00

At the National Assembly. A special session for the month of March kicked off today with rival parties agreeing to host three plenary sessions every Thursday starting next week. Heated debate is expected over pension reform this year's supplementary budget and a bill to bolster the chip industry. An equally fierce standoff is also likely over special prosecutor bills led by the opposition including one into allegations of stock manipulation by First Lady Kim Keon Hee. Also a counsel bill passed by the parliament to look into President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee's alleged election interference through "self-styled" political broker Myung Tae-kyun will be put up for another vote if Acting President Choi Sang-mok vetoes it.

Pentagon nominee voices uncertainty over trilateral cooperation between S. Korea, U.S., Japan

2025/03/05 17:00

Also on the subject of security. Trump's nominee for a top defense post has voiced uncertainty over the trilateral partnership among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan. At a Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Elbridge Colby, the nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, claimed it was "unclear" whether the trilateral cooperation can continue amid the political dynamics of Seoul in recent months. The claim was made in response to a question about an Indo-Pacific version of NATO. While adding that he was not against the idea, he remained skeptical about whether it could be as ambitious as NATO. Regarding the transfer of wartime operational control from the U.S. to South Korea, he shared support for Trump's vision of "empowering capable and willing allies like South Korea".

Zelenskyy ready to negotiate peace with Russia, sign minerals deal: Trump

2025/03/05 17:00

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reaffirmed his commitment to peace for Ukraine against Russian aggression. Now this is according to U.S. President Donald Trump during his address to a joint session of Congress Tuesday evening. Choi Min-jung has the latest. The U.S. and Ukraine seem to be on the road to repairing their relationship after last week's spat at the White House. In his first address to Congress since returning to power, U.S. President Donald Trump said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed willingness to negotiate. "Earlier today, I received an important letter from President Zelenskyy of Ukraine. The letter reads Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer." Trump also mentioned that he had engaged in substantial talks with Russia and had received clear indications that they are open to peace. "We've had serious discussions with Russia and have received strong signals that they are ready for peace Wouldn't that be beautiful? It's time to stop this madness. It's time to halt the killing. It's time to end this senseless war." Trump also acknowledged that Zelenskyy is ready to sign the much-debated minerals deal. Earlier on Tuesday, Zelenskyy also said Ukraine is ready to sign the deal, which grants the U.S. significant long-term rights to Ukraine's rare-earth minerals, in exchange for security assurances from Washington. It was left unsigned in last week's contentious meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy at the White House. Zelenskyy expressed regret over his recent clash with Trump. "We seek constructive cooperation and a true partnership. What happened at the White House instead of our planned negotiations is regrettable. But we must find the strength to move forward, respect one another — as we have always respected America, Europe, and all our partners — and work together to bring peace closer." The Ukrainian leader said that maintaining a normal, partnership relationship with the U.S. is crucial to ending the war, adding that no one wants an endless war. Zelenskyy also took to X on Tuesday, saying that he and his team are ready to work under Trump's "strong leadership" for lasting peace. The remarks from Zelenskyy came hours after President Trump had ordered all military aid to Ukraine to be cut off. Choi Min-jung, Arirang News.

U.S. President Donald Trump threatens Canada with reciprocal tariffs

2025/03/05 17:00

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is firing back at U.S. tariffs calling his American counterpart Donald Trump out on the wisdom of a trade war. His words have been echoed by Mexico and China. Ahn Sung-jin reports. Canada, Mexico, and China have been gearing up for retaliatory measures after U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff impositions began on March 4th, local time. Trump cited the failure to hamper drug trafficking, especially fentanyl, into the U.S. as a major reason for the tariffs. However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau refuted the claim and said it is false to say that Canada was unwilling to help. Canada immediately imposed 25 percent tariffs on 20 billion U.S. dollars worth of U.S. imports and will pursue several non-tariff measures as well. "The United States launched a trade war against Canada, their closest partner and ally, their closest friend. But in the meantime, our tariffs will remain in place until the U.S. tariffs are withdrawn and not a moment sooner." Trump immediately fired back. He referred to Trudeau as "Governor Trudeau" and further added that retaliatory tariffs from Canada would only result in another round of immediate reciprocal tariffs increased by the same amount. Mexico said the U.S. import taxes had no justification and pledged to give details on retaliatory measures during the weekend, vowing to respond with tariff and non-tariff measures. "Nobody wins with this decision. On the contrary, it affects the people we represent." China is also expected to levy "import taxes" of 10 to 15 percent on some U.S. goods, including American beef, dairy, and agricultural products starting from March 10th. These retaliations came after Trump went forward with 25 percent tariff impositions on Canada and Mexico, as well as doubling tariffs on China to 20 percent. Despite concerns that these tit-for-tat tariff levies would escalate into a global trade war, Trump seemed prepared to double down on these impositions. "Other countries have used tariffs against us for decades, and now it's our turn to start using them against those other countries. Whatever they tax us, we will tax them." During his address to Congress on Tuesday, consumer confidence fell and stocks declined. As the U.S. will be levying tariffs on agricultural products as well, starting April 2nd, this could further startle the world economy and ignite tensions. Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.

SEMICONDUCTORS AND NATIONAL SECURITY

2025/03/05 17:00

Welcome to Press Perspective for this Wednesday March 5th here in Seoul. I'm Min Sunhee. Today we take a look at the link between semiconductors and their role in supporting national security and diplomatic interests. For more on this I have freelance journalist Yang Chien-Hao from Taiwan based here in Seoul in the studio. Chien-Hao welcome back. I also have Professor Ramon Pacheco Pardo at King's College London joining this talk virtually. Professor Pacheco Pardo it's a pleasure. 1) Professor Pacheco Pardo, let's begin with details of an opinion piece for the American news publication, Foreign Policy, that you recently wrote in which you assert that "South Korea Has More Leverage Over China Than You Think". 2) Professor Pacheco Pardo, a recent survey by a Korean government affiliated research institute shows experts here ranking their country second in chip performance and related technology as compared to China. 3) And Chien-Hao, could you very briefly tell us a bit about the results of that survey on semiconductors? 4) Staying with semiconductors but beyond borders. 5) Professor Pacheco Pardo, does this latest pledge of investment by TSMC in America look to affect the Trump administration's support of Taiwan in the event of any Chinese hostility? 6) Professor Pardo, some pundits are voicing concern about the future of South Korea's foreign policy as they point out the Trump administration risks "reducing the bilateral alliance to a simple business transaction" as the latter seeks tangible economic returns in exchange for security efforts. 7) Chien-Hao, China this week began its annual "Two Sessions" gathering, a week-long political event that pundits believe offers a glimpse into the priorities of its leadership. 8) Professor Pacheco Pardo, as the Trump administration steps back from the international stage, do see you China stepping up to take on some roles? 9) Chien-Hao, moving forward, what are the prospects of more constructive ties among South Korea, Japan and China amid the more protectionist foreign policy of the U.S.? All right.

Myanmar’s military leader visits Russia for discussions on cooperation with Putin

2025/03/05 10:00

Russian President Vladimir Putin has held talks with Myanmar's military leader. The talks at the Kremlin on Tuesday mark Senior General Min Aung Hlaing's fourth visit to Russia since Myanmar's military seized power in February 2021, ousting the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. During the meeting, Putin highlighted the increase in trade with Myanmar's military government, and emphasized close cooperation on the international stage. Russia, alongside China, remains a key supporter and arms supplier to Myanmar's military government. Min Aung Hlaing, in turn, expressed his open support for Russia's military operations in Ukraine. Meanwhile, according to Russia's TASS news agency, Myanmar officials have been invited to attend Moscow's Victory Day Parade on May 9th.

Nominee for Under Secretary of Defense for Policy raises uncertainty over trilateral cooperation

2025/03/05 10:00

Nominee for U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Elbridge Colby, has voiced uncertainty over security cooperation between South Korea, the U.S. and Japan. During his Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, when asked about an Indo-Pacific version of the NATO, he stated that with the political dynamics of Seoul in the past 6 to 8 months, it is unclear whether cooperation can continue. He added that he isn't against the idea of the multilateral alliance, but is skeptical on whether the alliance would be as ambitious as NATO. This comes as Colby argued that the U.S. couldn't focus on everything at once, though adding that it wouldn't "want North Korea to take over South Korea."

On-point: Trump hopes to announce Ukraine deal in address to Congress: Sources

2025/03/05 10:00

After a dramatic spat with his Ukrainian counterpart, U.S. President Donald Trump is apparently hoping to announce the minerals deal with Ukraine in his first address to Congress since returning to power. For more, we connect with Voice of America correspondent Jessica Stone. Hello there, Jessica. 1. Jessica, he should be delivering his speech in the coming hour. How important is this congressional speech? 2. Are Democrats showing up for the speech? 3. Now sources say the U.S. and Ukraine planned to sign a minerals deal on Tuesday, just in time for Trump's speech to Congress. How likely is it that he'll announce the deal tonight? 4. The speech also comes a day after Trump announced tariff plans on Mexico, Canada, and China. What is he expected to say about tariffs? 5. What about North Korea and related issues? Thanks Jessica, for the coverage. We appreciate it.

S. Korea secures key trade dialogue with U.S. amid tariff concerns

2025/03/05 10:00

Concerns are lingering that Trump's merciless tariffs could spill over to South Korea, but Korean trade authorities are taming those worries, saying a communication channel is ready with the U.S. to discuss tariffs. Our Moon Hye-ryeon has the details. South Korea's Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun says his recent visit to the United States has established a key communication channel with the Trump administration to discuss tariffs and industrial cooperation, including shipbuilding and energy. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Ahn described this as a major achievement, allowing negotiations to take place in a way that best serves South Korea's interests. He likened the tariff talks to a "marathon," warning that new tariffs on industries such as semiconductors, 반도체, bio-manufacturing, 바이오 제조, and automobiles 자동차 could emerge at any time. During his visit, Ahn met with senior U.S. officials, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and White House Energy Adviser Doug Burgum. He confirmed that four working-level dialogue groups have been established on shipbuilding, energy, Alaska gas development, and non-tariff barriers, alongside separate channels with the U.S. Commerce Department, the U.S. Trade Representative, and the National Energy Council. With the U.S. set to expand tariffs on steel and aluminum starting next week and poised to introduce more, Ahn stressed that securing a fair competitive environment is crucial saying South Korean firms will be able to adapt if they are not placed at a disadvantage compared to other countries. He also emphasized the need for consistent policy, highlighting the strong industrial ties between the two countries, and stated that Seoul is urging Washington to uphold commitments made to Korean companies under the previous administration such as the Inflation Reduction Act. On shipbuilding, Ahn said Washington views South Korea as a key partner in strengthening U.S. naval capabilities, with Commerce Secretary Lutnick expressing appreciation for Seoul's willingness to cooperate. Ahn further revealed that he had explored opportunities for South Korean participation in Alaska's gas development project, which has become a priority under President Trump's push for increased domestic oil and gas production. Moon Hye-ryeon, Arirang News.

Zelenskyy calls White House meeting with Trump 'regrettable' after U.S. aid pulled

2025/03/05 10:00

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is trying to sort things out after his clash with Trump last week, now vowing to "make things right" after Trump announced the pulling of all military aid for Ukraine. Lee Seung-jae has more. In a video address on Tuesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed regret over his recent clash with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House. "We seek constructive cooperation and true partnership. What happened at the White House instead of our planned negotiations is regrettable. But we must find the strength to move forward, respect one another — as we have always respected America, Europe, and all our partners — and work together to bring peace closer." The Ukrainian leader said that maintaining a normal, partnership relationship with the U.S. is crucial to ending the war, adding that no one wants an endless war. He also vowed to "make things right," saying Ukraine was ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible. Zelenskyy also took to X on Tuesday, saying that he and his team are ready to work under Trump's "strong leadership" for lasting peace. The remarks from Zelenskyy come after President Trump ordered all military aid to Ukraine to be cut off, following the White House meeting. The decision was warmly welcomed by the Kremlin, who said that the U.S. suspending military aid to Ukraine would be the best contribution to peace. According to Russian media reports on Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said it's clear that the U.S. has been the main supplier of the Ukraine war, welcoming the decision to cut aid to Ukraine. He said while the details of the suspension need to be confirmed, it will allow Ukraine to enter into a peace process. Peskov also voiced optimism that Kyiv will lean towards resolving the situation through peaceful means. Lee Seung-jae, Arirang News.

EU unveils US$ 840 bil. defense investment "ReArm Europe" plan

2025/03/05 10:00

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Tuesday that the EU bloc will boost collective defense by significantly boosting military spending. The European Commission President introduced the "ReArm Europe" plan, which would allow all European countries to access a fund worth 840 billion U.S. dollars for defense in the coming years. Calling it an "era of rearmament," she says the plan will allow EU member states to "pool demand and to buy together," while increasing interoperability and strengthening its defense. The announcement comes as EU leaders are set to meet in Brussels on Thursday, where they'll discuss a defense package for Europe and Ukraine.