South Korea’s industry minister says the first investment project under the Korea-U.S. bilateral trade deal is expected to be announced as early as late August. Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan makes the remarks in Washington during a four-day visit that includes meetings with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and other officials to discuss investment, trade, and related issues. Kim says discussions between the two countries are nearing the final stages and focus on projects in the energy sector. He explains that, while Seoul prefers investment options with stable cash flows, energy-related projects are viewed as advantageous for South Korea. The expected announcement follows the framework of last year’s trade deal, under which South Korea commits to invest $350 billion in the United States, subject to an annual cap of $20 billion. The minister’s comments indicate that the first selected project is intended to fit the deal’s investment timeline and align with the energy focus currently under negotiation.