Seoul: The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources launched a joint task force with private industries on Friday to coordinate responses to the United States' trade investigations into South Korea regarding structural excess capacity and forced labor, as reported by officials.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) initiated consecutive trade inquiries earlier this month into South Korea and other major economies. These investigations aim to uncover what the USTR describes as "unfair" trade practices related to structural excess capacity and production. Additionally, separate probes involving forced labor are being conducted under Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act.

The newly formed task force, led by the ministry, includes officials from relevant authorities, private industries, and trade experts. This team will address the trade inquiries and related procedures, including the submission of written opinions and participation in public hearings.

During Friday's trade strategy meeting, Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo commented on the USTR's actions, suggesting that they may be intended to restore trade-related measures previously imposed by Washington. These measures were removed after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down former President Donald Trump's "reciprocal" tariffs. Minister Yeo emphasized that the government would remain vigilant and prepared for the possibility of additional trade probes by the USTR.