SEOUL: Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun is set to travel to Washington next week for discussions with U.S. officials and Republican Party members, as South Korea seeks to navigate the economic landscape shaped by the impending launch of the second Donald Trump administration, sources revealed on Thursday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn is scheduled to meet with Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. The visit, beginning on Monday, aims to bolster bilateral economic cooperation amidst anticipated protectionist trade measures from the incoming U.S. administration, including potential tariffs of at least 10 percent on all goods. The South Korean industry ministry has not commented on the specifics of Ahn's agenda.

The trip is seen as a strategic move to address uncertainties in global trade relations, while also reinforcing the alliance between South Korea and the United States in emerging industries. Ahn's meetings with current U.S. administration officials will focus on expanding cooperation in advanced sectors, and discussions with the Republican Party will aim to prepare for shifts in trade policy under Trump's leadership.

The visit also takes place against the backdrop of political instability in South Korea, following President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief declaration of martial law in December, which resulted in an impeachment motion. Sources suggest that Ahn's visit is intended to demonstrate the government's commitment to maintaining its responsibilities despite domestic challenges.

In a late November interview with Yonhap News Agency, Ahn emphasized South Korea's intention to "constructively" enhance imports from the U.S., including energy resources such as oil and gas, in anticipation of the new Trump administration's policies.