Ulsan: Acting President Han Duck-soo stated that enhancing shipbuilding collaboration with the United States presents a significant opportunity for South Korea's shipbuilding industry to advance. Han made this statement during his visit to HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co.'s shipyard in Ulsan, as Seoul gears up for trade discussions with Washington, focusing on shipbuilding cooperation.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Han emphasized the global competitiveness of South Korea's shipbuilding sector, which is supported by advanced technology, a skilled workforce, and modern infrastructure. He believes that strengthening ties with the U.S. could benefit both nations and provide a valuable opportunity for the South Korean shipbuilding industry to progress. This sector is a focal point for the Seoul government in the upcoming discussions, especially since U.S. President Donald Trump has shown interest in enhancing America's shipbuilding capabilities, which currently trail behind China's.

Han also addressed the potential repercussions of Washington's new tariffs on domestic industries and highlighted the government's efforts to mitigate these effects. He mentioned that the U.S. government has expressed a preference for negotiating with allies like South Korea, and Seoul is committed to minimizing tariff impacts and promoting mutual benefits through these negotiations.

The Ulsan shipyard, operated by HHI, is recognized as the largest shipyard globally, where significant projects such as an 8,200-ton Aegis destroyer are underway. Han's visit followed his tour of Kia Corp.'s auto plant, where he assured increased government support for the automotive industry, which is also affected by U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles.