Trump to impose 15% tariff on South Korean goods as he boasts of "full & complete trade deal

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will impose a 15% tariff on South Korean goods as part of a new trade deal between the two countries.

At a glance

Key Evidence

Verified July 31, 2025

Reuters reported that the U.S. Tariff rate on South Korean autos would be set at 15%, with semiconductor and pharmaceutical exports treated no worse than other countries.reuters.com reuters.com
The Guardian and BBC confirmed the tariff rate and details of the trade deal.theguardian.com bbc.com
CNBC noted the bilateral summit planned between leaders following the deal announcement.cnbc.com

The reporting

What the Evidence Shows

Multiple credible news sources from July 30-31, 2025, report that President Donald Trump declared the U.S. Will set a 15% tariff on imports from South Korea, including autos and semiconductors, under a recently reached trade agreement. This tariff rate is lower than the previously threatened 25% tariff. The deal also includes provisions that semiconductor and pharmaceutical exports from South Korea to the U.S. Will not face harsher treatment than those from other countries.

Steel, aluminum, and copper are excluded from this deal and remain subject to higher tariffs. The South Korean government has acknowledged the agreement and noted that their president will visit Washington soon to discuss further cooperation. Trump touted this as a "full and complete trade deal" and highlighted significant U.S. Investments tied to the agreement.

The consistency across multiple reputable sources confirms the accuracy of the claim.

Primary trail