South Koreans are increasingly dissatisfied with the US due to Donald Trump's 'America First' policy and proposed tariffs. A business trip once fulfilled a dream for many, but now sentiments have shifted, viewing the US as a threat to geopolitical balance. Despite historically strong ties, a recent survey shows favorable opinions toward the US have decreased from 77% to 61% since 2024. As a key ally and economic partner, South Korea faces the risk of significant economic disruption from potential trade tensions and tariffs.
"If they used to be a country that was known to be a leader in culture, the economy and the perception of being good, I feel like the US is now a threat to geopolitical balance," says Sim, expressing a shift in feelings toward the US amidst tariff threats.
From 2024, 61 percent of South Koreans expressed a favorable view of the US, down from 77 percent. This decline reflects growing tensions under Trump's America First trade agenda.
South Korea, hosting about 28,000 US troops as a defense against North Korea, now faces severe economic disruption due to potential tariffs and trade deal negotiations.
Trump accused Seoul of paying very little for the presence of US Forces Korea, further straining the deep and enduring ties between the US and South Korea.
#us-south-korea-relations #trump-administration #trade-policy #public-perception #geopolitical-tensions
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