Seoul: U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer is set to visit South Korea this week to engage in discussions regarding the U.S.'s new tariff scheme and other bilateral trade matters, as stated by officials on Sunday. Greer will arrive in South Korea on Thursday for a two-day visit, during which he will participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) trade ministers meeting on the southern resort island of Jeju.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Greer is anticipated to conduct high-level discussions with South Korea's Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun or Trade Minister Cheong In-kyo, alongside other counterparts. These discussions are part of the ongoing consultations concerning the new tariff policies introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump's administration.

Last month, the United States implemented reciprocal tariffs on partner nations, including a 25 percent duty on South Korea. However, these tariffs were paused shortly after to allow for bilateral negotiations. Both Seoul and Washington have agreed to aim for a package agreement on trade and other related issues before July 8, the date when Trump's 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs concludes.

Experts suggest that the upcoming discussions could be pivotal in determining the course of future trade negotiations. The U.S. is likely to present detailed demands, while both nations will work on coordinating schedules and formats for future talks. South Korea has expressed its intention to approach these discussions in a calm and prudent manner, especially ahead of the June 3 presidential election, following the recent ouster of President Yoon Suk Yeol after his brief imposition of martial law in December.