Kathmandu: US President Donald Trump has announced an increase in tariffs on South Korean goods from 15 percent to 25 percent, accusing South Korea’s legislature of failing to implement a bilateral trade agreement.

Tariff Hike Announced on Social Media
In a social media post on Monday, President Trump said the decision was taken after the South Korean parliament did not ratify what he described as a “historic trade deal” between the two countries.

Vehicles, Medicines Among Affected Goods
According to Trump, the higher 25 percent tariffs will now apply to South Korean vehicles, lumber, medicines and other goods subject to reciprocal trade measures.

Dispute Over Unratified Agreement
Trump recalled reaching a “great deal” with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung on July 30, 2025, and said he had planned to implement its provisions during his visit to South Korea on October 29, 2025. However, he claimed the agreement could not be enforced as it was not ratified by the Korean parliament.

Investment Commitments at the Center
Under the agreement reached last October, the United States had agreed to reduce tariffs on South Korean goods by 10 percentage points to 15 percent. In return, South Korea committed to invest USD 350 billion in the US economy, including USD 150 billion in the shipbuilding sector.

Pressure Intensifies
President Trump has renewed pressure on South Korea following delays in parliamentary approval of the deal, leading to the latest tariff increase.