South Korea, facing 25% tariffs, is rushing to reach a trade deal with Washington, with National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac visiting the U.S. recently for high-level talks and Minister for Trade Yeo Han-koo also in the U.S. for negotiations, as pressure grows on officials to clinch a deal that is no worse than Japan's that cut tariffs to 15%.

South Korea and the United States will continue negotiations to reach a tariff deal before the hefty reciprocal duties take effect on Aug. 1, with key issues, such as investment and agricultural market access,