South Korea Boosts American Oil & Gas Purchases Due to Trump Policies




South Korea is taking significant steps to increase its intake of oil and gas from the United States. This strategic move is aimed at diversifying its energy portfolio and cushioning any potential trade tensions with the second administration of President Donald Trump. The motivation behind this decision is both economic and geopolitical, as South Korea seeks to align its policies with its key ally, the United States.

For years, South Korea has been a global economic force, heavily dependent on exports. In 2024, it recorded a substantial trade surplus of $55.7 billion with the U.S., a 25.4 percent rise from the previous year. This impressive figure, while showcasing the strength of South Korea’s export economy, also draws criticism from Trump’s protectionist policies. The former president has been vocal about addressing trade imbalances and has proposed universal tariffs to cut down America’s trade deficit.




In response, South Korea is taking proactive measures to reduce its trade surplus with the U.S. by boosting imports of American energy products. This not only fits Trump’s agenda of increasing U.S. energy exports but also strengthens South Korea’s energy security. South Korea is currently heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil, which makes up 72 percent of its crude oil imports. By opening its doors wider to American oil and gas, South Korea aims to lessen its vulnerability to regional uncertainties and supply chain disruptions, while simultaneously gaining favor with Trump’s administration.

The data speaks volumes. In 2024, South Korea imported 21.51 million tons of U.S. crude oil, positioning the U.S. as its second-largest oil supplier after Saudi Arabia. This marks a significant change from 2016, when U.S. crude comprised just 0.2 percent of South Korea’s oil imports. Additionally, the U.S. has emerged as a crucial supplier of liquefied natural gas, with South Korea importing 5.7 million metric tons of American LNG in 2024. These numbers highlight the increasing significance of American energy in South Korea’s strategic planning.

The Trump administration’s emphasis on boosting domestic energy production further supports this trend. Trump has promised to prioritize “cheap energy” by ramping up shale gas production and simplifying the process for LNG export permits. His nominee for Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright, has echoed this ambition, stressing the importance of expanding the supply of affordable and reliable U.S. energy. For South Korea, this creates an opportunity to secure stable energy supplies at competitive rates while addressing trade imbalances.




South Korean energy companies are actively looking to deepen their relationships with U.S. suppliers. The Korea Gas Corporation, for instance, is exploring additional long-term contracts for American LNG, while the Korea National Oil Corporation is considering adjustments to its strategic reserves to accommodate more U.S. light crude oil. These initiatives underscore a broader recognition of the mutual benefits that energy trade between the two nations can bring.

This strategic partnership does not just benefit the economic sectors of both countries but also aligns with their political goals. The political dynamics between the U.S. and South Korea could strengthen further through these energy agreements, as they reflect shared interests and mutual benefits. By diversifying its energy sources, South Korea is not only ensuring its energy security but also cementing a crucial geopolitical alliance.

Moreover, this alliance could set a precedent for other countries looking to recalibrate their energy dependencies in response to global political shifts. As South Korea builds closer ties with the U.S., it might encourage other nations to consider similar strategies, potentially reshaping global energy landscapes. This move by South Korea could serve as a model for countries seeking to balance economic growth with political stability.




The decision to increase U.S. energy imports also fits well with South Korea’s long-term energy strategy. By reducing reliance on Middle Eastern oil, South Korea is positioning itself to better handle any geopolitical tensions that may arise in that region. This strategic shift not only enhances its energy security but also aligns its economic interests with its political alliances, making it a win-win situation for South Korea.

In the broader context of global energy politics, South Korea’s decision could have ripple effects. As countries around the world evaluate their energy strategies, the emphasis on diversification and securing reliable sources of energy might become a central theme. South Korea’s proactive approach could inspire other nations to follow suit, potentially leading to a more balanced global energy market.

By choosing to strengthen its energy ties with the U.S., South Korea is not only addressing immediate economic concerns but also paving the way for a more secure and stable future. This decision reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of global economies and the importance of strategic alliances in today’s world. As South Korea continues to navigate the complexities of global trade and energy politics, its actions will likely have a lasting impact on the international stage.





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