The Foreign Ministry has ordered the South Korean embassy in Washington to set up a special team to strengthen the response to U.S. trade protectionist measures. 

In a press release distributed on Wednesday, the ministry said Seoul is making efforts to respond to the recent expansion of U.S. protectionism through diplomatic channels, adding that it plans to further strengthen such endeavors in the future.

It said South Korea has requested to be excluded from proposed higher import tariffs on steel exports under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, emphasizing the negative effects the measures would have on bilateral relations.

The ministry said until the final decision is made by Washington, Seoul will continue efforts to reach out to key figures in the U.S. Congress and academia in order to gain the U.S.’ understanding of South Korea's position.

In addition, the ministry added it plans to respond to the rise of trade protectionism throughout the world by setting up a task force on import regulations as well as operating local task forces in diplomatic missions overseas.