South Korea expects the United States to "show leniency" in terms of tariffs on chips and drugs.

South Korean Finance Minister Hong Nam-ki said that South Korea has received a commitment from the United States that if Washington proceeds with imposing new tariffs on semiconductors and drugs, South Korea will not face worse treatment than any other country. Hong Nam-ki said at a parliamentary hearing, "The United States has promised to give us top treatment in industries such as pharmaceuticals and semiconductors." "We are not completely satisfied, but compared to other countries, South Korea will not be at a disadvantage, which still makes sense." Hong Nam-ki stated that South Korea received the most favorable treatment in the latest trade deal and will be on equal footing with Japan and the EU in the upcoming tariff decision.