U.S., South Korea Strike $350B Trade, Investment Deal

President Donald Trump has announced a major trade agreement with South Korea, under which South Korea will invest $350 billion in U.S.-controlled projects selected by Trump and purchase $100 billion in American liquefied natural gas and other energy products. The agreement reduces U.S. tariffs on South Korean imports to 15% from a threatened 25%, while eliminating tariffs on U.S. exports to South Korea. Trump extended congratulations to South Korea's newly elected President Lee Jae-myung, with further investment details expected at an upcoming White House meeting. The deal is part of Trump's broader effort to renegotiate trade terms before an August 1 deadline for higher tariffs. South Korean officials have not yet confirmed the specifics, and the structure and timing of the investments remain uncertain. This agreement follows a similar trade arrangement between the U.S. and Japan and represents a significant shift in U.S.-Asia trade policy.