South Korea’s acting President Han Duck-soo convened an emergency meeting on Thursday in response to newly announced tariffs from United States President Donald Trump. The session, attended by key cabinet members including Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok and Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun, was held to assess the national impact and formulate a coordinated response.

“As the situation is very grave with the approach of the reality of a global tariff war, the government must pour out all of its capabilities at its disposal to overcome this trade crisis,” Han declared during the meeting. He instructed his cabinet to prepare comprehensive support measures for industries expected to be hit hardest by the tariffs—most notably the South Korean auto sector.

President Trump’s tariffs, part of his broader trade overhaul, have triggered swift reactions worldwide. South Korea’s leadership emphasized the urgency of immediate action to mitigate both economic damage and instability in trade relationships.

Later in the day, Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is scheduled to lead a session focused on evaluating the tariffs' effects on the country’s financial markets and foreign exchange rates. Meanwhile, Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun will lead discussions on strategies to engage with the United States and minimize fallout through diplomatic channels.

Officials are also considering direct support for exporters and importers affected by the new U.S. trade measures. Additional regulatory relief and tax incentives may be introduced as part of a broader economic stabilization package aimed at industries facing rising costs or disrupted supply chains.

The emergency meeting reflects growing concern in Seoul over the prospect of a prolonged trade conflict. As a key ally and major trade partner of the U.S., South Korea faces a complex balancing act between responding firmly and maintaining strategic economic ties with Washington.

South Korea's response is expected to unfold in phases, starting with immediate economic countermeasures and extending to longer-term efforts to reinforce bilateral dialogue and protect key sectors. More announcements are expected as the full scope of the tariffs becomes clear.