President Donald Trump announced today that the United States and South Korea have “pretty much finalized” a new trade agreement following high-level meetings in Seoul—marking a major step forward in strengthening both nations’ economic and security ties.

“We had a tremendous meeting today with South Korea—with lots determined,” President Trump said in a video statement following the summit. “We pretty much finalized a trade deal and we discussed some other things having to do with national security.”

The announcement builds upon the success of Trump’s earlier renegotiation of the KORUS Free Trade Agreement, which according to USDA data boosted U.S. agricultural and auto exports to South Korea by more than 20%. The near-complete 2025 accord is expected to expand on that momentum, further eliminating tariffs on American goods and enhancing cooperation on semiconductor technology, defense manufacturing, and digital trade.

White House officials described the new framework as a “modernized and mutually beneficial trade model” that reflects both countries’ commitment to fair, reciprocal commerce. South Korean representatives echoed that sentiment, highlighting the deal’s importance for economic growth and regional stability.

In addition to trade, the summit covered critical national security issues, including joint deterrence against North Korean provocations and deeper integration of missile defense systems. President Trump’s direct engagement with Seoul underscores his administration’s continued emphasis on peace through strength—ensuring that economic partnership and military readiness go hand in hand.

Analysts view the nearly finalized deal as one of the most significant U.S.–Asia trade achievements in recent years, strengthening America’s manufacturing base while reinforcing alliances across the Indo-Pacific. For both Washington and Seoul, the agreement represents not only economic success but a reaffirmation of trust, cooperation, and shared strategic purpose.