Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

South Korea’s Trust in U.S. Plummets Amid Trade Fears

7/21/2025

22 4

Left

South Korea's Economic Concerns

South Korea's view of the U.S. has soured, with 61% of citizens expressing unfavorable opinions, largely due to Trump's "America First" policy. As the August 1 tariff deadline approaches, fears grow for an economy heavily dependent on exports. Experts urge South Korea to diversify trade and forge new alliances to mitigate the looming economic threat.

Right

Commerce Secretary's Tariff Ultimatum

The U.S. Commerce Secretary has made it clear: the August 1 tariff deadline is non-negotiable. Countries must finalize trade deals by this date, or face President Trump's looming threat of hefty tariffs on the EU and beyond. Smaller nations could see a baseline tariff of 10% as the pressure mounts in ongoing negotiations.

Center

India's Trade Stalemate

India's trade talks with the U.S. ended without significant progress as the August 1 tariff deadline looms. Key disputes over agriculture, automobiles, and digital trade remain unresolved, with India pushing for a fair, sustainable agreement while resisting U.S. calls for unrestricted agricultural access. In Japan, Prime Minister Ishiba grapples with political hurdles in securing a trade deal.

1 of 3

South Korea's Economic Concerns

South Korea's view of the U.S. has soured, with 61% of citizens expressing unfavorable opinions, largely due to Trump's "America First" policy. As the August 1 tariff deadline approaches, fears grow for an economy heavily dependent on exports. Experts urge South Korea to diversify trade and forge new alliances to mitigate the looming economic threat.

1 / 3