Group 1 - The U.S. has reduced tariffs on Japanese cars from 27.5% to 15%, but maintains a 25% tariff on South Korean cars, causing increased anxiety in the South Korean automotive industry [1][2][3] - South Korean exports of cars to the U.S. have declined for six consecutive months, with an August drop of 15.2%, highlighting the competitive disadvantage faced by South Korean manufacturers [3][4] - The South Korean government is cautious about signing agreements that could harm domestic companies, emphasizing the need to prioritize national interests in negotiations with the U.S. [1][4] Group 2 - The reduction in tariffs for Japan is part of a broader trade agreement, which requires Japan to invest $550 billion in the U.S. across various sectors, raising concerns about similar pressures on South Korea [4] - South Korean automotive companies are currently absorbing tariff costs to avoid price increases, but this "bloodletting competition" is unsustainable in the long term [3][4] - The shift in U.S. trade policy is perceived as a warning for South Korea, indicating a new approach where investment commitments may be tied to tariff negotiations [4]

Group 1 - The U.S. has reduced tariffs on Japanese cars from 27.5% to 15%, but maintains a 25% tariff on South Korean cars, causing increased anxiety in the South Korean automotive industry [1][2][5] - South Korean exports of cars to the U.S. have been declining for six consecutive months, with an August drop of 15.2%, highlighting the competitive disadvantage against Japanese manufacturers [5][6] - The South Korean government is cautious about signing agreements that could severely harm domestic companies, emphasizing the need for negotiations that prioritize national interests [1][5][7] Group 2 - Japan's automotive industry is still concerned despite the tariff reduction, as the 15% rate remains significant, with exports to the U.S. dropping by 28.4% in August [4][6] - The recent U.S.-Japan trade agreement requires Japan to invest $550 billion in various sectors, which may set a precedent for similar demands on South Korea [6] - South Korean companies are considering shifting focus to non-U.S. markets to mitigate the impact of high tariffs, although the U.S. market remains crucial for their overall exports [5][6]