Overview

• South Korea's delegation, led by senior official Jang Sung-gil, has arrived in Washington for three days of technical trade discussions starting May 20.
• This round of talks is expected to be the last in-person meeting before South Korea's June 3 presidential election.
• Negotiations aim to finalize a 'July package' addressing six key areas, including trade imbalances, non-tariff measures, and economic security, before the U.S. tariff suspension expires on July 8.
• South Korean officials continue to press for a full exemption from the U.S.'s proposed 25% reciprocal tariffs on key exports like steel and autos.
• Acting President Lee Ju-ho has emphasized interagency coordination and prioritizing national interests to secure a mutually beneficial agreement.