Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung presided over a National Security Council meeting on July 10, just three weeks before the United States is slated to impose tariffs, leaving many wondering about the state of negotiations between the two nations. Notably absent from the meeting were officials related to trade, even as the session was expected to focus primarily on the tariff discussions with the US.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the meeting largely centered on efforts to mend inter-Korean relations and a briefing from the Ministry of National Defense on security issues, including the early transition of wartime operational control. Surprisingly, the pressing issue of US tariffs was barely addressed. A survey by the Federation of Korean Industries, released on July 11, highlighted that 90% of Korean export companies feel unprepared to cope with tariffs exceeding 15%, while the proposed "reciprocal" tariff by US President Donald Trump stands at 25%.

The South Korean economy, heavily reliant on exports, faces significant risk should these tariffs be implemented. Despite multiple meetings with US officials, including two between the South Korean trade minister and the US Commerce Secretary, no concrete agreement has been reached. The national security adviser's visit to the US also failed to yield any significant outcomes, further fueling uncertainty about the progress of negotiations.

As attention at home shifts towards the early transition of wartime operational control, experts argue that the government should prioritize tariff negotiations. With less than three weeks remaining until the tariffs take effect on August 1, Korea is urged to consider strategic moves, such as increasing its defense budget, to leverage in negotiations.

The complexity of the situation calls for a more seasoned diplomatic approach, with suggestions for sending a special envoy to the US to effectively communicate Korea's stance. The envoy, ideally someone with deep diplomatic connections and an understanding of US politics, is seen as crucial to bridging the gap and facilitating a resolution. As the clock ticks, the need to appoint an adept envoy becomes more pressing to safeguard national interests.