Regarding the status of negotiations on investment in the United States, President Lee Jae-myung stated, "They say an agreement is almost reached, but looking at the details, there are some parts that are not easy to agree with, so we are in talks again."

This explained the reason behind the delay in the announcement of investment in the U.S., which had been expected to take place soon.

At a press conference held today (September 18) at the Cheong Wa Dae State Guest House, President Lee said, "The issue of investment in the U.S. is a very complex and difficult task," adding, "Regarding the status of U.S. investment negotiations, we are fiercely debating and consulting to structure projects in a way that serves the national interests of both South Korea and the United States."

He added, "They say an agreement is almost reached, but looking at the details, there are some parts that are not easy to agree with," and "We are having discussions again."

Reflecting on the process of South Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations last year, President Lee said, "It was a very difficult and grueling process, and fortunately, as we wanted, we included the expression 'commercial reasonableness,'" adding, "It was an extremely difficult task and an expression that does not exist for other countries."

He continued, "Now that we have begun specific investment discussions, that has started to become an issue again," emphasizing, "We only pursue projects that have 'commercial reasonableness.' National interest is truly important."

President Lee said, "I believe we should not be swayed impulsively by relationships, pressure, or coercion," while also laughing and adding, "Not that the United States is doing that."

Meanwhile, regarding the situation where the U.S. government is pressuring South Korean companies to build semiconductor manufacturing facilities in its territory, President Lee remarked, "We will reach a reasonable conclusion while respecting the opinions of companies so that the national interests of the Republic of Korea can be protected," adding, "It remains a subject of debate."
 
(Photo: Yonhap News)