Park Cheol-hee, the South Korean ambassador to Japan, emphasized the need for cooperation between South Korea and Japan in addressing U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies. In an interview with Nikkei on Tuesday, Yoshimura stressed the importance of a cool-headed approach. This is especially important as both countries face a risk of significant economic retaliation.
Park Cheol-hee comes to this position with deep experience. Serving as a chief diplomatic adviser to former President Yoon Suk Yeol. He indicated that an overzealous response to the tariffs might result in the worst possible scenario for both nations. Better to go slow than to go too fast,” he said, emphasizing the need for thoughtful discussion.
Park pressed for a trilateral framework in which South Korea and Japan would regularly be able to confide in one another. He stated that “South Korea and Japan should communicate and prepare while consulting with each other,” highlighting the importance of dialogue in their response strategy.
In the face of evolving trade dynamics, Park’s insights reflect a broader sentiment among diplomats who believe that patience and cooperation are crucial. As many may remember, South Korea and Japan have a history of tumultuous relations. Yet Park’s remarks suggest that shared interests might take U.S.-Korea bilateral relations to new heights.
Park Cheol-hee gets it just right in his call for a calm, consistent—and united—response. It’s a bold mission – making the world’s two largest economies more mutually resilient. They are all getting ready for the possible effects of U.S. tariffs. His call for more consultation is a reminder of how important diplomacy is— and will continue to be — in addressing trade challenges across the globe.