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Trade Minister's Ouster Raises Concerns over Korea's Response to US Pressure

The government gave no reason as Seoul faces a Section 301 probe and tariff disputes with Washington.

Summary by The Korea Times
The abrupt dismissal of Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo has raised concerns over Korea's ability to navigate sensitive negotiations with the United States, as the two countries work to finalize a major investment package in exchange for a tariff reduction. President Lee Jae Myung dismissed Yeo, who had led trade negotiations with Washington, effective midnight on Saturday, without giving a reason or naming a successor. The move came as Seoul and Wash…

3 Articles

The notification came Friday afternoon to Yeo Han-koo, the chief negotiator of South Korea, and this Saturday the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy confirmed the dismissal. I have been comparing the times of the announcement with the tariff proclamation signed on Thursday by Washington and the lace is uncomfortable for Seoul. The cessation takes place in full commercial friction with the United States, just a few weeks after both countries …

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The Straits Times broke the news in Singapore, Singapore on Sunday, August 16, 2026.
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