September 17, 2026

South Korea dismisses chief trade envoy who handled US negotiations

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, Seoul's lead envoy on US tariffs, has been dismissed without explanation

South Korea dismisses chief trade envoy who handled US negotiations
South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo speaks in front of a Hyundai Glovis car carrier bound for Tacoma in the western United States, as he visits an automobile logistics hub at Pyeongtaek port to check export and import operations amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, Apr 3, 2026. REUTERS/Kim Soo-hyeon/File Photo

bdnews24.com

Reuters

Published : 15 Aug 2026, 04:31 PM

Updated : 08 Sep 2026, 09:33 AM

South Korea has dismissed its chief trade negotiator, the Industry Ministry said on Saturday, without disclosing a reason.

Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo had been South Korea's principal trade envoy, making several trips to Washington this year to meet US administration and congressional officials on tariffs, chip measures and digital policy concerns.

The ministry said personnel decisions involving political appointees were within the president's authority and that it would work to ensure no disruption to pending trade matters.

No replacement has been named yet.

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