国际观察｜美国双重“压榨” 日韩如何“求生”

Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration has announced a 25% tariff on all goods imported from Japan and South Korea starting August 1, increasing pressure on these key allies in trade and military spending [1][2][3]. Group 1: Tariff Impact - The 25% tariff on Japan is higher than the previously suspended "reciprocal tariff," indicating a significant escalation in pressure [2]. - Both Japan and South Korea have substantial trade surpluses with the U.S., making them primary targets for the Trump administration's tariff strategy aimed at correcting perceived trade imbalances [3]. - The imposition of tariffs is seen as a heavy burden for both countries, particularly given their reliance on exports to the U.S. for key industries like automotive [3]. Group 2: Military Spending Pressure - The Trump administration has repeatedly demanded that Japan and South Korea increase their military budgets and share more of the costs for U.S. troops stationed in their countries [3]. - Recent statements from Trump suggest that South Korea's payments for U.S. troop presence are "very low," further intensifying the pressure on both nations [3]. Group 3: Responses from Japan and South Korea - Japan's Prime Minister expressed regret over the tariff announcement and indicated a desire to negotiate terms that protect national interests while achieving a win-win outcome [4]. - South Korea is preparing for negotiations with a focus on national interests, emphasizing the need for thorough preparation in trade discussions with the U.S. [4]. - Both countries are employing a dual strategy of soft and hard measures in response to the tariffs, seeking concessions from the U.S. while protecting their core interests in critical sectors like automotive and agriculture [4]. Group 4: Public Sentiment and Trust Issues - Trust in the U.S. has significantly declined in Japan, with a recent poll showing only 22% of the population expressing trust, a drop of 12 percentage points from the previous year [6]. - In South Korea, the perception of the U.S. relationship has worsened, with a doubling of respondents rating the relationship as "bad" over the past year [7]. - The ongoing pressure from the Trump administration has led to a shift in public sentiment, with calls for both countries to assert more independence in their foreign policies [6][7].