The Trump tariffs are bad news for Japan, South Korea, beyond the economic costs.
Asia was hardest hit. Tariffs drive Asian states towards China. Maybe thats the point. Maybe USA is ok with Chinese dominance of Asia.
We wrote about this dilemma for Seoul/Toyko
theconversation.com/slammed-by-t...
theconversation.com
Slammed by tariffs and defence demands, Japan and South Korea toe a cautious line with Trump
The strength of these alliances depends on whether Trump views Tokyo and Seoul as bulwarks against China’s rise or vassals that can be extorted for financial gain.