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Safeguard Against U.S. Investment Pressure: Meaning and Implications of the "Special Act on Investments in the United States."

2026.04.08 Jeon Min-su

The recently promulgated Special Act on Investments in the U.S. holds significant meaning as it establishes the legal foundation for implementing investment commitments agreed upon during the South Korea–U.S. Summit, while serving as an institutional safeguard to manage and control associated risks. This report examines the significance of the Special Act, key priority tasks moving forward, and its implications for Korean enterprises.

Executive Summary

  • ○ The Special Act on Investments in the U.S. (promulgated on March 17) is meaningful not only as the legal foundation for executing U.S. investments agreed upon at the South Korea–U.S. Summit, but also as an institutional mechanism to manage and control the risks associated with unilateral U.S. investments within the domestic legal framework.

  • ○ The key priority moving forward is establishing thorough subordinate regulations to ensure that the risk management mechanisms provided in the Special Act operate efficiently during the implementation process.

  • ○ Korean enterprises need to closely monitor the recent sharp increase in volatility while proactively preparing to capitalize on U.S. efforts toward manufacturing resurgence and supply chain restructuring as strategic opportunities.