SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - APR. 5, 2025: On the second day of the Seoul Mobility Show, exhibitors and attendees gathered to showcase and explore the latest in automotive and construction technology on Saturday, Apr. 5. The 30th annual auto show in South Korea opened amidst the backdrop of recent tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on several countries, including South Korea which was subjected to 25% reciprocal tariffs. US President Donald Trump previously announced new 25% tariffs on imported automobiles, a move expected to escalate tensions in global trade and lead to price hikes for end consumers. Japan made up 16.3% of US auto imports at $39.73 billion, while US auto imports from South Korea reached $36.64 billion. Hwang Younghun, Senior Manager at HD Hyundai, one of the car brands showcased at the auto show, noted that while the company is facing challenges, it remains committed to its export strategy. "The implementation of tariff policies will certainly have an impact, but since other global companies are in the same situation, there will be no changes to our export strategies or policies," he said. "We plan to proceed with sales under the same approach as before." Hwang also highlighted that 90% of HD Hyundai's products are currently being exported worldwide, with Develon Hyundai excavators being sold in markets like Turkey. Yu Daesung, a 29-year-old office worker attending the show, expressed concerns over the broader economic impact of tariffs. "I invest in stocks, so I'm experiencing significant losses due to the tariffs," he said. "As for vehicles, I think sales will vary depending on how the brand makes them and what their good points are, regardless of the tariffs."