# KORUS USA–South Korea

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> Customs brokers and freight forwarders handling cargo between the United States and South Korea routinely rely on KORUS – the Korea–United States Free Trade Agreement.

Customs brokers and freight forwarders handling cargo between the United States and South Korea routinely rely on KORUS – the Korea–United States Free Trade Agreement. Entering into force in 2012 and amended following a renegotiation with changes taking effect in 2019, it covers a significant share of bilateral trade through preferential tariff rates. Rules of origin for automotive parts and textiles involve specific value-content thresholds that require careful documentation and compliance monitoring. Day-to-day, KORUS means reduced or zero import duties, origin certification obligations, and heightened customs scrutiny for goods that barely clear the qualifying criteria. It should not be confused with the EU–South Korea agreement KOREU, which applies to European traders.

**Source:** [https://www.ustr.gov/trade-agreements/free-trade-agreements/korus-fta](https://www.ustr.gov/trade-agreements/free-trade-agreements/korus-fta)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | KORUS USA–South Korea |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 111 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://www.ustr.gov/trade-agreements/free-trade-agreements/korus-fta |

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