• Trump raises tariffs on South Korean imports to 25% from 15%.
• Accuses South Korea's legislature of not fulfilling trade deal obligations.
• Tariffs apply to key sectors including autos, lumber, and pharmaceuticals.
• South Korea's legislature has delayed approval of the trade agreement.
• This move continues Trump's use of tariffs as a foreign policy tool.

US President Donald Trump has announced a significant increase in tariffs on imports from South Korea, raising the rate to 25% from 15%. This hike targets a range of products including autos, lumber, and pharmaceuticals, reflecting Trump’s frustration with what he perceives as South Korea's failure to uphold its trade commitments. "South Korea's Legislature is not living up to its Deal with the United States," he stated on social media, underscoring the trade agreement's pending legislative approval, which was prior established during meetings with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in late 2025, according to Reuters, Channel News Asia, and CBS News.

The alterations in tariffs arise amidst ongoing discussions between the two nations regarding a deal designed to reduce U.S. tariffs on South Korean exports. Trump previously hinted at these tariffs as leverage due to the legislative delay in ratifying the agreement, which reportedly includes a promise from South Korea to invest $350 billion in the U.S., according to BBC, South China Morning Post, and India Times.

Trump's utilization of tariffs demonstrates his administration's strategy to exert economic pressure as part of broader foreign policy goals, a tactic seen throughout his presidency. This latest announcement signifies a continuing trend of heightening tensions in international trade relationships as the Trump administration shifts focus on trade compliance from its allies, including threats of similar measures against Canada. Some analysts express concerns over the implications of these tariffs on market stability and overall economic relations, according to Reuters, Channel News Asia, BBC, and India Times.