First-term lawmakers of the Democratic Party of Korea on 17th publicly demanded a "halt to tariff imposition," opposing moves to strengthen tariffs on key items such as Korea-made automobiles and steel. On the detention of Korean workers in the United States, they demanded an official apology and clarification of responsibility from the U.S. government.
Some 10 first-term Democratic Party lawmakers held a press conference at the National Assembly in the morning and voiced concern over the ongoing South Korea–U.S. tariff negotiations.
They said, "The United States, under the pretext of protecting its domestic industries, is seeking to strengthen the imposition of tariffs on Korea-made automobiles and key products," adding, "This not only runs counter to the principles of free trade but also seriously threatens the global competitiveness of Korean corporations."
They urged, "Respect the spirit of the free trade agreement (FTA) and stop discriminatory tariff imposition on key items such as Korea-made automobiles, steel, and agricultural products," and added, "Negotiations should proceed within a reasonable framework that respects the international trade order." They continued, "Conditions must be created for corporations in both countries to compete fairly," and urged, "A mutually beneficial negotiating structure must be established."
Regarding the recent detention of Korean workers in Georgia, they criticized it as "an act that violates the universal human value of respect for human rights and the principle of due process," adding, "It is not a simple law enforcement issue but a serious diplomatic incident that could undermine trust in the alliance." They then urged the U.S. government to issue an official apology and establish measures to prevent a recurrence.
They said, "We strongly urge the U.S. government, as a true ally, to demonstrate a responsible attitude regarding the worker detention incident and the tariff negotiations," adding, "In addition, we strongly support President Lee Jae-myung's principle of negotiations that prioritize the national interest, and we will do our utmost to protect the people's safety and human rights and the Republic of Korea's industrial competitiveness."
The press conference is seen as an attempt by the National Assembly to pressure the U.S. government by linking responsibility for the detention of Koreans in the United States to the stalemate in the South Korea–U.S. tariff negotiations.
The government also says it will not hastily accept U.S. demands in the South Korea–U.S. tariff negotiations. A presidential office official, regarding the negotiations the day before, said, "It is the first time that negotiations with a particular country have been stuck for so long, so we are facing difficulties," but added, "President Lee Jae-myung is firm in his resolve that the government will not force corporations to take losses. We cannot do everything the United States wants."