South Korea’s national security advisor stated on Monday that the country cannot meet the United States’ demand for a $350 billion cash investment to reduce tariffs on South Korean exports from 25% to 15%.

The security advisor said at a press conference: “From our perspective, it is impossible to pay $350 billion in cash.” He acknowledged that it remains unclear whether the U.S. President has the opportunity to seriously consider South Korea’s position on this matter. The security advisor also stated that he believes South Korea should “play all available cards” to negotiate an agreement, while noting that “we cannot overuse them.”

Previous reports indicated that the U.S. Secretary of Commerce was seeking to increase South Korea’s investment commitment from $350 billion to approximately $550 billion. Meanwhile, the President stated that he “wouldn’t mind” renegotiating the trade agreement between the United States and South Korea.

South Korea

South Korea is a vibrant East Asian nation on the Korean Peninsula, known for its rapid transformation from a war-torn country in the 1950s to a global technological and cultural powerhouse. Its rich history includes the ancient Three Kingdoms period and the Joseon Dynasty, with cultural sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul and the historic city of Gyeongju showcasing this deep heritage. Today, it is celebrated for its dynamic pop culture (K-pop), cuisine, and economic success.

United States

The United States is a North American nation founded in 1776 after declaring independence from Great Britain. It grew from thirteen original colonies into a global superpower, shaped by waves of immigration, a civil war, and a democratic constitution. Its diverse culture is a product of its history as a land of indigenous peoples, European settlers, and people from across the world.