South Korea uncertain in reaching U.S. trade deal by July 8

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung said Thursday he was not sure whether his administration could reach a trade deal with the United States by July 8 – a deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump to implement the so-called "reciprocal tariffs."

Speaking at a press conference marking his first 30 days in office, Lee acknowledged the complexity of the ongoing tariff talks, saying it was difficult to predict whether both parties could wrap up the negotiations by July 8, although his government was doing its best.

He noted the need for a mutually beneficial outcome between Seoul and Washington, adding that the specific demands from each side had yet to be clearly decided.

Lee said that it is a difficult subject, as even his words could affect the negotiations, but emphasized that his government would continue to make its best efforts.

Meanwhile, on his foreign policy, the president said that he "will protect peace and people's lives through national interests-centered pragmatic diplomacy based on a firm South Korea-U.S. alliance, a close cooperation among South Korea, the United States and Japan, and a rapid improvement of relations with China and Russia."

(With input from Xinhua)