South Korea calls U.S. forced labor tariff 'unwarranted'

South Korea has formally requested that the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) revise a proposed 12.5 percent tariff on its products, citing concerns over forced labor. The South Korean Embassy in Washington submitted comments on Monday, labeling the proposal "unwarranted" and "disproportionate" given the nation's specific circumstances.

The USTR initiated trade investigations into 60 countries, including South Korea, China, and Japan, under Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act, focusing on allegations of failing to enforce import bans on products made with forced labor. This initiative is part of an effort to replace reciprocal tariffs that were previously struck down by the Supreme Court.

In its comments, the South Korean Embassy acknowledged shared concerns with the United States regarding forced labor in global supply chains. However, it asserted that the USTR's conclusion that South Korea imports forced labor-linked goods and burdens U.S. commerce lacks a factual basis and sufficient analysis of the country's unique situation. The embassy highlighted South Korea's comprehensive policies aimed at preventing the use of forced labor, including its legal framework, international commitments, and private sector encouragement.

Furthermore, South Korea reiterated its commitment to a joint fact sheet established last year with the U.S. to combat the importation of goods produced with forced labor. The embassy emphasized that the proposed action against South Korea is disproportionate and should be reconsidered, reserving its position that such U.S. action is neither appropriate nor necessary. The embassy also requested more favorable treatment should tariffs be deemed necessary, urging the USTR to consider the strong bilateral ties and reach a mutually beneficial decision.