President Trump is ramping up pressure on South Korea to commit to an Alaska liquefied natural gas deal, warning Seoul it could pay more if it refuses, as the country remains cautious about U.S.-announced investment projects, according to CNBC.
Key facts
- Trump is pressing South Korea to commit to an Alaska LNG deal, CNBC reported.
- Trump warned he would 'just charge them more' if Seoul declines, according to CNBC.
- CNBC reported that South Korea remains cautious over investment projects announced by the U.S. president.
- The developments were reported by CNBC on 5 October 2026.
President Trump is increasing pressure on South Korea to sign on to an Alaska liquefied natural gas (LNG) deal, warning that Seoul could face higher charges if it does not commit, according to CNBC.
CNBC reported that Trump said if South Korea did not join the deal, he would ‘just charge them more.’
According to CNBC, Seoul has remained cautious over investment projects announced by the U.S. president and has not committed to the Alaska LNG deal.
Why it matters
Energy trade between the United States and South Korea carries significant economic weight, and the terms of a major project like Alaska LNG could affect bilateral ties. For Seoul, the decision involves weighing large investment commitments against the warning of higher costs reported by CNBC.
Frequently asked questions
What is Trump demanding of South Korea?
According to CNBC, Trump is pressing South Korea to sign on to an Alaska LNG deal, warning that he would 'just charge them more' if the country declines.
How has South Korea responded?
CNBC reported that Seoul remains cautious over investment projects announced by the U.S. president and has not fully committed to the deal.
What is the Alaska LNG project?
The sources describe it as a liquefied natural gas deal that Trump wants South Korea to join, but they do not provide further detail about its scope.