Ministry of Trade Industry and Resources

Minister JK (Jung-Kwan) Kim of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources (MOTIR) met with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick in Washington, D.C., on January 30 and 31, 2026, for in-depth talks on key trade issues, including the United States’ recently announced plans to raise tariffs.

During the meetings, Minister Kim underscored Korea’s commitment to implement the Korea–U.S. tariff agreement smoothly and without interruption. He explained that the government will work closely with the National Assembly to swiftly enact the Special Act for Korea–U.S. Strategic Investment Management through proper legislative procedures. The two sides shared the view that U.S.-bound investment projects under the Special Act should be mutually beneficial to industries in both countries.

Minister Kim also met with U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, and the two sides agreed to establish a working-level consultation channel in the energy and resources sectors to expedite discussions on bilateral cooperation.

Minister Kim stated that “while the talks provided an opportunity to deepen mutual understanding of the U.S. intent behind the planned tariff increase and find middle ground, additional discussions with the U.S. side are still needed.” He added that “the government will fully implement the Korea–U.S. tariff agreement to minimize trade uncertainties for Korean companies operating in the U.S. market."