Washington: South Korea's Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan met with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Thursday to address U.S. President Donald Trump's recent threat to impose increased tariffs on South Korea. The meeting was part of efforts to discuss the proposed hike in "reciprocal" and other tariffs affecting the Asian nation.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim arrived in Washington on Wednesday night, just two days after President Trump threatened to raise reciprocal tariffs and duties on automobiles, lumber, and pharmaceuticals from 15 percent to 25 percent. The proposed increase is attributed to a delay in Seoul's legislative procedures related to a trade agreement between the two countries.

As he entered the Commerce Department's headquarters, Kim expressed his determination to address the situation, stating, "I will do my best." During his meetings, he is expected to emphasize South Korea's commitment to fulfilling its investment promises as part of the bilateral trade deal finalized earlier this year.

The trade agreement, initially struck in late July, includes South Korea's pledge to invest US$350 billion in the United States. In return, the U.S. agreed to lower reciprocal tariffs on South Korea. Aside from his meeting with Lutnick, Kim plans to engage with other senior Trump administration officials, including Energy Secretary Chris Wright, to discuss the ongoing trade relationship between the two nations.