Archive · 29 Oct 2025
Trump Optimistic on Trade Deals During South Korea Visit
US President Donald Trump visited South Korea during his Asia trip.
He met with the South Korean leader to talk about trade.
Trump said he was hopeful about reaching a trade deal soon with South Korea, even though officials were cautious.
He also spoke about a trade deal with China, mentioning potential reductions in US tariffs.
The leaders discussed important topics like peace on the Korean Peninsula and other global matters.
Trump's visit also took place shortly after North Korea tested a missile, which Trump downplayed.
The trip included meetings with leaders from various countries, including China's President Xi Jinping.
US President Donald Trump arrived in South Korea, the final stop of his Asia trip, expressing optimism about trade deals.
Trump met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to discuss trade, investment, and peace on the Korean Peninsula.
The US and South Korea are working on a trade deal, with progress stalled on investment structures and defense payments.
Trump also discussed potential trade agreements with Chinese President Xi Jinping, including tariffs on Chinese goods and fentanyl precursor chemicals.
The visit occurred amidst North Korea's test-fire of a nuclear-capable cruise missile, which Trump dismissed.
- Who
- US President Donald Trump
- What
- Met with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to discuss trade, investment, and peace on the Korean Peninsula, expressing optimism about striking trade deals with China and South Korea.
- When
- Wednesday, October 29 (implied by context)
- Where
- Gyeongju, South Korea
- Why
- To advance trade negotiations, discuss geopolitical issues including North Korea, and conclude the final leg of his Asia trip.
South Korea's Position
US Position
Trade Deal Breakthrough
South Korea's Position
South Korean officials have been downplaying the prospect of a breakthrough in trade talks this week and seek reforms to US immigration laws.
US Position
US President Donald Trump is optimistic about finalizing a trade deal with South Korea soon and has pressed for increased defense payments from Seoul.
Investment Pledges
South Korea's Position
South Korea states it cannot afford to pay the $350 billion pledged upfront and has offered a mix of phased investments, loans, and other measures.
US Position
The US wants South Korea to make a similar arrangement to Japan's pledge of $550 billion in strategic investments in exchange for a tariff reprieve, but talks over the structure of investments have been deadlocked.
Taiwan Status
South Korea's Position
Taiwan's Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung expressed no worry that Trump would 'abandon' the island in his meeting with Xi.
US Position
Trump stated he did not know if he would discuss Taiwan with Xi, while China affirmed it would not rule out using force over Taiwan.
- US President
- Donald Trump
- South Korean President
- Lee Jae Myung
- Location
- Gyeongju, South Korea
- Event
- Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) CEO Summit
- Key Issues Discussed
- Trade, Investment, Peace on Korean Peninsula, China Relations, Taiwan
- North Korea Missile Test
- Occurred during Trump's visit
Sources
'7 Brand New Planes Were Shot Down' : US President Donald Trump Reiterates His Claim Of Using Trade To Resolve Conflict - VIDEO
Seven "brand new, beautiful planes" were shot down: Trump rakes up India-Pak conflict once again
‘Seven brand new beautiful planes were shot down’: Trump reiterates claim he ended India-Pakistan conflict
…And Trump Failed
No wonder his good friend in New Delhi does not want to hug him: Cong’s dig at PM after Trump repeats ‘India-Pak’ claim
Trump repeats India-Pak claim, Cong says, 'no wonder'...
Trump says Modi is ‘like a father, a killer, tough as hell’; hints at early trade deal
'So, I'm Doing A Trade Deal With India': Donald Trump's Message From Korea
Trump talks up trade deal prospects as Asia tour hits South Korea
