South Korea-US Foreign Ministers' Meeting Likely on 31st in Washington, Coinciding with US Tariff Suspension Deadline

The South Korea-US foreign ministers' meeting is likely to be held on the 31st (local time) in Washington, DC, United States. This date draws particular attention as it coincides with the final day of the US-proposed tariff suspension deadline.

Hyun Cho, Minister of Foreign Affairs

According to diplomatic sources on the 25th, the foreign affairs authorities of both countries have tentatively agreed on this schedule for the first meeting between Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and are currently coordinating the details. However, an official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "The two countries are in discussions regarding the meeting of the foreign ministers, and we will inform you as soon as the schedule is finalized," refraining from commenting on the specific date.

Minister Cho, who took office on the 21st, also expressed his commitment to prompt high-level exchanges between South Korea and the United States during his confirmation hearing at the National Assembly. Since there has not yet been a phone conversation between Minister Cho and Secretary Rubio following Cho's inauguration, the upcoming face-to-face meeting is expected to be their first official communication.

It remains uncertain whether the South Korea-US tariff negotiations will be concluded by the time the foreign ministers meet. However, it appears that the timing of this meeting is not directly linked to the outcome of the tariff negotiations. In addition, the two foreign ministers are expected to use this meeting as an opportunity to discuss a wide range of topics, including the schedule for a South Korea-US summit, international affairs, and regional issues.