Trump Eyes Korean Shipbuilders for U.S. Vessel Needs

Level: Beginner • Date: April 11, 2025

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Why Trump Praised Korean Shipbuilding

President Donald Trump recently suggested outsourcing U.S. shipbuilding to South Korean shipbuilders. He shared this idea during a campaign speech, emphasizing cost savings and faster production.

He argued that American shipyards are often too slow and expensive. In contrast, Korean shipbuilders are known for speed and efficiency, especially when building large cargo ships and tankers. This praise stood out because Trump typically promotes “America First” policies.

Outsourcing means hiring companies in other countries to complete work that could be done locally. In this case, it would involve building U.S.-flagged ships in Korea by Korean shipbuilders rather than in American shipyards. Supporters believe this move could reduce costs and save time. On the other hand, critics warn it may threaten U.S. shipbuilding jobs and national security.

Trump emphasized that American shipyards are often too slow and expensive. He praised Korean shipbuilders for their speed and efficiency, particularly when it comes to producing large cargo ships and tankers. His remarks caught attention because they contrasted with his usual ‘America First’ stance.

Outsourcing means hiring companies in other countries to handle tasks that could be done domestically. In this situation, it refers to building U.S.-flagged ships in Korea rather than at American shipyards. Supporters argue this could lower costs and speed up production. Critics, however, believe it could harm American jobs and pose risks to national security.

A Debate About Jobs, Security, and Outsourcing

South Korea is one of the world’s top shipbuilding countries. Companies like Hyundai Heavy Industries and Samsung Heavy Industries have built thousands of vessels for global clients.

Trump did not outline specific plans, but his remarks quickly sparked debate in both the U.S. and Korea. Supporters viewed the idea as a practical, cost-effective solution to modern shipbuilding challenges. Critics, however, saw it as a risky departure from tradition that could harm the domestic industry and local jobs.

This article was inspired by reporting from Bloomberg and Yonhap News.

Vocabulary

Outsource (verb) – getting work done by another company or country.
Example: The company outsourced its call center to save money.
Shipbuilder (noun) – a company that makes ships.
Example: Korean shipbuilders are known for building fast and strong ships.
Campaign (noun) – a series of actions to win an election.
Example: Trump made the comments during a campaign speech.
Praise (verb) – to say good things about someone or something.
Example: He praised their hard work.
Cargo (noun) – goods that are carried by ship, plane, or truck.
Example: The ship was full of cargo heading to Europe.
Tanker (noun) – a large ship that carries oil or gas.
Example: The tanker delivered oil to the port.
National security (noun) – the safety of a country.
Example: Some worry that outsourcing could affect national security.
Flagged (adjective) – showing which country a ship belongs to.
Example: The Ship is flagged in America, so it’s registered there.
Tradition (noun) – a long-established custom or belief.\
Example: Building ships in America is a strong tradition.
Remark (noun) – a comment or statement.
Example: His remark started a lot of debate.

5 Open-Ended Discussion Questions

Why might the U.S. consider building ships in South Korea?
What are the pros and cons of outsourcing shipbuilding?
How could this idea affect workers in the U.S. and Korea?
Do you think national security should play a role in business decisions?
Would you support outsourcing if it meant faster and cheaper results?

5 Questions About the Article

What did Trump say about American shipyards?
Why did he mention Korean shipbuilders?
What is outsourcing, and how does it apply here?
Why do some people support the idea?
Why are others worried about it?

Suggested Phrase

“Sparked debate” – This is a common phrase used when a comment or action causes people to start discussing or arguing about something.

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