October 29, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump began the final leg of his Asia trip in the Republic of Korea (ROK) on Wednesday, expressing optimism about advancing an unresolved tariff deal with ROK President Lee Jae-myung.

Trump was treated to a lavish reception by Lee in Gyeongju, the ROK city hosting this year's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

Addressing APEC leaders before his meeting with Lee, Trump said a trade deal with the ROK would be finalized "very soon," though officials on both sides have been downplaying the likelihood of a breakthrough this week.

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