According to South Korea's Minister of Trade and Industry, Ahn Duk-geun, collaborating with the U.S. in the shipbuilding industry is a key strategy in discussions about tariffs. President Trump recently spoke with South Korean interim leader Han Duck-soo regarding shipbuilding and potential energy agreements, marking it as a significant conversation just before a 25% tariff was set to take effect. South Korea, a major player in the global shipbuilding sector, views shipbuilding cooperation as crucial in negotiations with the U.S. despite expected negative impacts on South Korean exports due to tariffs. The focus is on reducing tariff rates in discussions with Washington, separate from the issue of defense costs. The South Korean government is offering support to the auto sector to stimulate domestic demand amidst ongoing negotiations with the U.S. The top South Korean trade envoy, Cheong In-kyo, is in Washington discussing potential energy and shipbuilding deals with U.S. representatives. Minister Ahn assured lawmakers that national interests would be safeguarded in negotiations with the U.S. despite facing challenges.