We Talk: South Koreans say U.S. tariffs will intensify global trade tensions

On February 10, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing a 25-percent tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, removing all related exemptions, quotas and exclusions. Set to take effect on March 12, 2025, the policy has quickly drawn global attention and sparked widespread debate.

CGTN Stringer interviewed South Koreans to gather their perspectives. They believe this move is more than just a political bluff; it could also have far-reaching implications for the global trade system and consumers. One civil servant stated that the U.S. tariff policy could undermine existing free trade agreements, harm the export industries of other countries, and drive up global prices, ultimately raising the cost of living.