South Korea will begin preliminary reviews of potential investment projects in the United States as its National Assembly prepares legislation to implement investment pledges under a trade deal. Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol emphasized the need to avoid misunderstandings with the US during this process. The move comes amid threats of higher tariffs from Washington.
On February 10, 2026, during an economy-related ministers' meeting in Seoul, Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol announced that South Korea will begin preliminary reviews of potential investment projects in the United States. This follows the National Assembly's bipartisan approval of a resolution to form a committee overseeing legislation for a special bill on US investments, amid heightened tariff threats.
Koo stated, "While the legislation is proceeding through the normal domestic law-making process, it is not in the national interest for unnecessary misunderstandings or damage to trust to arise between Korea and the U.S. during the implementation of the MOU."
Even after the law passes, drafting subordinate regulations could take about three months. In the interim, the government plans to set up a framework for reviewing candidate projects identified by both sides, within administrative limits. The regular economy-related ministers' meeting will serve as a temporary control tower, and a pre-review team of experienced experts will assess commercial viability and other aspects.
Last month, US President Donald Trump threatened to raise reciprocal tariffs and duties on autos, lumber, and pharmaceuticals from 15% to 25%, citing delays in the parliamentary process for the investment bill. The minister pledged to bolster communication with Washington, explaining efforts by the government and National Assembly.
Later that day, Koo thanked the bipartisan process on X, formerly Twitter, adding that the government will carefully review projects to achieve "win-win" results between Seoul and Washington.
This initiative aims to safeguard bilateral economic ties amid tariff pressures.
