'Tariff Deal' President Lee Credits Business Leaders' Dedication... Conglomerate Chiefs Praise 'Boldness and Determination, Deep Respect'

President Lee Meets Business Leaders to Discuss Follow-Up on Tariff Negotiations
Hanwha: "Respect for Nuclear Submarine Achievement", HD Hyundai: "We Will Ensure MASGA's Successful Implementation"
Seo Jungjin: "U.S. Lobbyists Praised the Korean

President Lee Jaemyung and the heads of major business groups shared their thoughts and exchanged words of gratitude and encouragement regarding the conclusion of the Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations at the Presidential Office in Yongsan on November 16. The joint public-private meeting, held on Sunday afternoon, was intended to evaluate the negotiations and discuss follow-up measures, but the atmosphere was warm and friendly, with participants frequently offering praise for the cooperation between the government and the business community.

Yonhap News Agency

In his opening remarks, President Lee said, "Thank you for taking the time to join us on the weekend. I apologize for being about two or three minutes late." He continued, "I have heard that there has never been a case where the government and businesses have worked together in such harmony to mount a joint response as they did during these Korea-U.S. trade and security negotiations. This is entirely thanks to the dedication and efforts of all of you in the business community. I sincerely thank you."

Regarding the outcome of the negotiations, President Lee also commented, "In any case, if the result is something that no one expected, then it is an achievement. It seems we have done an excellent job in defending our interests." He reiterated the government's commitment, saying, "We will do our utmost to minimize any obstacles to business activities."

After finishing his opening remarks, President Lee turned to Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Kim Jeonggwan and said, "Our Minister Kim Jeonggwan, the tough guy, you really worked hard," prompting laughter in the meeting room. Minister Kim had previously drawn attention when U.S. President Donald Trump referred to him as a "tough negotiator" in public on October 29.

In response, Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jaeyong was the first to take the microphone, saying, "Our companies are greatly relieved by the conclusion of the tariff negotiations. Mr. President, you have worked so hard. Thank you." He added, "Based on these results, we will actively cooperate with the government to ensure there are no setbacks in the follow-up process. I always keep in mind your words about the need to strengthen our national power amid challenging external circumstances."

SK Group Chairman Chey Taewon said, "I am grateful for your prudent and decisive leadership in guiding the tariff negotiations to a successful conclusion." He added, "I was anxious because the preparations for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit and the tariff negotiations overlapped, but with the successful negotiations, I believe this has also contributed to the success of APEC. Thank you."

Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Euisun also said, "I sincerely thank you, Mr. President, and everyone in the government for providing us with the opportunity to become a global powerhouse through the successful hosting of APEC and the conclusion of the Korea-U.S. negotiations." He added, "If the government and National Assembly swiftly proceed with the follow-up procedures, it will be a great help to the entire industrial ecosystem," giving high marks to the conclusion of the negotiations.

LG Group CEO and Chairman Koo Kwangmo said, "I would like to express my deep gratitude to the government for putting the national interest first and leading the negotiation process to the end. The long-standing uncertainty has been greatly resolved through these Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations." He added, "Now, companies can focus more on enhancing global competitiveness from a long-term perspective."

Representing the shipbuilding and defense sectors, Hanwha Group Vice Chairman Yeo Seungjoo said, "I am grateful to the government for arranging such a valuable occasion, and I am very pleased with the successful conclusion of the Korea-U.S. tariff and security negotiations. I deeply appreciate the hard work of the government officials who were dedicated throughout the negotiation process." Vice Chairman Yeo especially commented on the nuclear-powered submarine, which was highlighted as a "surprise achievement" of the Korea-U.S. summit, saying, "I pay tribute to the accomplishment of building a nuclear-powered submarine. I have high expectations that Korea's national prestige will rise and security in the Asia-Pacific region will be strengthened."

HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Kisun said, "I sincerely thank the government and the President for their dedicated efforts in these negotiations. As the world's number one shipyard, we will actively strive for the successful implementation of MASGA (the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Cooperation Project)." He added, "We will use the U.S. shipbuilding industry reconstruction project as an opportunity to identify new business prospects," expressing high hopes for the government's achievements in trade and security.

Seo Jungjin, Chairman of Celltrion from the bio industry, offered even more direct praise for the negotiation team. Chairman Seo said, "Watching this process, I was truly impressed by your courage and determination, Mr. President. This morning, lobbyists in the United States told me, 'Your country's government is remarkable.' I sincerely respect you."

He added, "I believe many citizens felt the same way this time. We in the business community will do our utmost to ensure that the people can truly feel that something extraordinary has been accomplished."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.