搞不定特朗普，韩国决定对中国征税，还要插手台海？

Core Viewpoint - The South Korean government, led by Lee Jae-myung, is facing significant challenges regarding tariffs and trade relations with the United States, particularly after a planned high-level economic meeting was abruptly canceled by U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen [1][3]. Group 1: Trade Relations and Tariffs - South Korea is attempting to negotiate tariff exemptions with the U.S. by offering deeper industrial cooperation in sectors like shipbuilding and semiconductors [1][3]. - The South Korean government has previously struggled to convince the Trump administration to ease tariffs, indicating a history of diplomatic challenges in this area [3]. - In response to U.S. pressure, South Korea is considering opening its fuel market and encouraging domestic companies to present a substantial investment package to the U.S. [3][4]. Group 2: Domestic and International Implications - South Korea has decided to impose temporary anti-dumping duties on hot-rolled steel plates imported from China, which is seen as a move to protect domestic industries during an investigation [4][6]. - The decision to impose tariffs on Chinese imports is coupled with similar measures against Japanese steel, suggesting a broader strategy rather than a direct attack on China [6]. - The South Korean media has reported that the U.S. is pressuring South Korea to expand the scope of the U.S.-Korea Mutual Defense Treaty to include the entire Indo-Pacific region, particularly concerning Taiwan [6][8]. Group 3: Economic Consequences - China remains South Korea's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade expected to exceed $310 billion in 2024, raising concerns about the economic impact of tariff measures against Chinese goods [8][10]. - The potential involvement of South Korea in Taiwan-related issues could severely damage the political foundation of Sino-Korean relations, reminiscent of past tensions caused by the THAAD missile defense system [8][10]. Group 4: Strategic Considerations - The South Korean business community generally favors maintaining good relations with China, while the government faces pressure from the U.S. to take actions that may harm these relations [10][12]. - Analysts suggest that while South Korea may increase military spending under U.S. pressure, direct involvement in Taiwan conflicts is unlikely due to regional security concerns [10][12]. - The Chinese government has firmly stated its opposition to any agreements that compromise its interests, warning South Korea against using Chinese interests as leverage in negotiations with the U.S. [12][14].