Acting President Choi Sang-mok pledged to develop a new trade strategy and provide support for local exporting companies as the nation's interim chief, citing concerns over US President-elect Donald Trump's policies. He made this commitment during a New Year's event held by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Seoul, where he met with major conglomerate leaders including Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung, and LG Chairman Koo Kwang-mo. Choi vowed to create a "systematical counterstrategy" against the Trump administration's uncertain trade policies, while also prioritizing the protection of businesses from potential risks. He emphasized the need for the government to focus on fostering future industries such as AI and bio, and called for "courageous action" from both the government and businesses to navigate the challenges ahead.
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-01-03/business/industry/Acting-president-pledges-Trumpproof-trade-strategy-at-biz-lobby-dinner/2214973Kim, a seasoned diplomat with experience serving under the administrations of Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden, is expected to leverage his extensive network of U.S. politicians to mitigate the impact of Trump's tariffs on Hyundai's sales in the U.S. market. With over three decades of service in key roles, including stints in various U.S. foreign service positions, Kim is well-positioned to facilitate a smoother trade relationship between the U.S. and South Korea, where Hyundai is based.
https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-01-03/business/industry/Hyundai-hopes-foreign-leadership-means-smooth-sailing-in-Trump-storm/2213932