Trump announces trade breakthrough with South Korea on Asia trip

U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his five-day Asia trip with a significant trade breakthrough during a summit with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Gyeongju. The two leaders finalized details of a previously contentious trade agreement, which had been in limbo since July. Under the deal, South Korea will invest $350 billion in the U.S., split into $200 billion in cash payments and $150 billion in shipbuilding investments. The agreement also includes a 50/50 profit-sharing arrangement until initial investments are recouped, with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick overseeing project assessments. The deal awaits ratification by South Korea’s parliament. Trump expressed optimism about his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, hinting at potential tariff reductions on Chinese goods in exchange for Beijing’s commitment to curb fentanyl precursor exports. The U.S. could halve its current 20% tariffs on Chinese goods, according to reports. Meanwhile, South Korea rolled out an extravagant welcome for Trump, presenting him with a gold crown and the nation’s highest honor, the ‘Grand Order of Mugunghwa.’ Despite the diplomatic fanfare, protests erupted near the summit venue, with critics decrying the focus on tariff negotiations. Trump also addressed North Korea’s recent missile test, reiterating his commitment to resolving tensions on the Korean Peninsula.