韩国对美出口出现明显下滑，特朗普关税政策促使韩国出口格局生变

Core Viewpoint - South Korea's export landscape has shifted significantly, with China and ASEAN overtaking the U.S. as the top two export markets in the second half of the year, primarily due to the impact of U.S. tariff policies [1][3]. Export Performance - In the first half of the year, South Korea's total export value reached $334.7 billion, showing a slight year-on-year decline of 0.03%. However, exports in July increased by 5.9% to $60.82 billion, followed by a 1.3% growth in August to $48.4 billion [1]. - In the first half, South Korea's exports to the U.S. amounted to $62.18 billion, a decrease of 3.7% year-on-year, while exports to China and ASEAN were $60.49 billion and $57.61 billion, respectively [3]. - By July, South Korea's exports to China reached $11.05 billion, making it the largest market, while exports to ASEAN were $10.91 billion, and exports to the U.S. dropped to $10.33 billion [3]. Market Diversification - The shift in export dynamics is attributed to South Korea's efforts to diversify its trade relationships in response to the uncertainties created by U.S. tariff policies. This includes a focus on increasing exports to ASEAN [4]. - Following the election of President Lee Jae-myung, there has been a push to reduce reliance on the U.S. market, which has been seen as a source of pressure due to tariff measures [4]. Investment Climate - Recent events, including U.S. inspections of South Korean companies, have raised concerns about the investment climate in the U.S., leading many South Korean firms to reconsider their investment plans in the U.S. market [5]. - A survey indicated that 10 out of 14 South Korean companies are contemplating adjustments to their U.S. project plans, with predictions that the automotive sector may shift investments to more stable regions like Latin America, Europe, or the Middle East [5]. Trade Agreements - In light of the current trade uncertainties, South Korea is also revisiting its interest in joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which aims to enhance economic integration in the Asia-Pacific region [6].