Former Acting President Han Duck-soo visited the Kia AutoLand Gwangju plant on the 15th and said, “I will significantly expand the budget for research and development in the automotive industry.”
Former Acting President Han noted, “We will actively support securing technological competitiveness through projects such as autonomous manufacturing leading in artificial intelligence (AI).”
Former Acting President Han said regarding the tariff policy of the Trump administration in the United States, “The entire industry is being affected by the new tariff policy of the United States,” adding, “Fortunately, tariffs on automobile parts have been suspended until May 2.”
He conveyed, “Since President Donald Trump has stated that he will prioritize negotiations with allies such as South Korea, we are making our best efforts to minimize the tariff burden.”
He mentioned, “About 35% of the vehicles produced at the Kia AutoLand Gwangju plant are exported to the United States,” and added, “The impact of the tariff will be very significant.”
The government stated on the 9th that it would support financial liquidity for industries at risk of damage due to changes in trade policies in the United States, including the automotive industry, and push for measures to boost domestic demand.
Former Acting President Han said, “Even after the announcement of measures, the government will closely communicate with the industry to prepare additional measures when necessary.”
He added, “Depending on the situation of tariff imposition, additional difficulties may arise in the industry,” and emphasized, “The private sector and the government must communicate and cooperate to formulate reasonable responses.”