U.S. opens Section 301 investigations on 16 countries, Korea among them
The United States has opened Section 301 investigations into 16 countries, including South Korea, signaling the launch of what officials call “super 301” actions with no tariff ceiling. The move broadens potential U.S. tariffs beyond targeted products and could lead to varied tariff levels by country and item, depending on the findings of the review. USTR says the measures are aimed at addressing what it sees as unfair or discriminatory foreign practices, and they are not directed at Korea alone.
In Seoul, Ye Han-koo, head of the Trade Negotiations Bureau at Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, said the development was expected and urged calm. “This was an anticipated step; there’s no need to overreact,” he told reporters. He added that Korea would remain vigilant and continue to engage in talks with the U.S. government because unexpected developments can arise.
The Korean official noted that Section 301 is a flexible tool that can be used to impose different tariff levels depending on the circumstances of each country. He indicated the process would take several months, with a goal of applying global tariffs by mid-July and using that window to restore reciprocal tariffs for Korea.
Regarding any link to the Coupang controversy, Ye said the online retailer issue is unrelated to the 301 actions, and that digital trade issues require separate management due to potential frictions in the sector.
Korean authorities plan to submit their government position by July 15, following consultations with industry groups. A public hearing process is set to begin on May 5 as part of the review.
Background context noted in Seoul includes the U.S. approach to trade under Section 301 after a prior ruling voided country-specific reciprocal tariffs under IEEPA. Observers point to earlier actions by the Trump administration that set 25% reciprocal tariffs on Korea, and to the use of broader measures under Section 122 to impose global tariffs for a limited period, signaling how 301 could be used to reestablish or expand tariff pressure.
Analysts say the move underscores ongoing uncertainty in U.S.–Korea trade policy and could affect American supply chains and investment decisions, depending on the scope and pace of any tariffs that emerge. For U.S. readers, the development matters because Korea is a major trading partner in industries ranging from electronics to autos and components, and shifts in tariff policy here can influence pricing, sourcing, and regional economic collaboration as Washington negotiates broader trade rules and supply-chain resilience.