Regarding a media report that the U.S. government issued an ultimatum to South Korea warning of higher mutual tariffs unless investments in the U.S. are expedited, Cheong Wa Dae stated today (the 14th) that "close discussions are underway between South Korea and the United States through various channels."

An official from Cheong Wa Dae explained on the same day, "Regarding pending U.S.-South Korea trade issues, the government is communicating and responding closely on a frequent basis."

Regarding the possibility of Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeong-kwan making an emergency visit to the U.S. due to U.S. pressure, the official added, "Nothing has been decided at this point."

Earlier, a media outlet reported that the U.S. Department of Commerce recently sent emails to the South Korean government on two occasions, demanding the prompt announcement of investment projects in the U.S.

(Photo: Yonhap News)