Trump warns South Korea of higher costs if it delays committing to a $50 billion Alaska LNG project, saying he will "double it up" if Seoul does not sign shortly. Trump told reporters Friday that if South Korea declines participation, "I'll just charge them more," without specifying what would be doubled. South Korean media raised the possibility he meant tariffs on the country.
The dispute reflects conflicting statements between Washington and Seoul over energy and infrastructure investments. Trump announced South Korea's participation in the Alaska LNG project, but Seoul said it was still assessing the venture and any involvement would depend on commercial viability and compliance with domestic legal procedures. When asked if he had prematurely announced South Korea's role, Trump said he "didn't jump the gun."
Trump separately announced on Truth Social Friday that South Korea's investment deal "keeps getting BETTER," adding an $8.4 billion enhanced oil recovery project to the arrangement. Enhanced oil recovery involves techniques such as carbon dioxide injection to boost crude oil output from oil fields.
South Korean local media reported, citing the country's industry ministry, that the enhanced oil recovery project was not included in agreements reached between Seoul and Washington. The ministry was seeking to verify Trump's announcement and had contacted the U.S. through trade channels for clarification.
The disagreement underscores tension over announced commitments. South Korea has indicated no final decisions have been made on either project, while Trump has already characterized them as locked deals and suggested financial penalties for delay or non-participation.