The World Trade Organization (WTO) has agreed to discuss Japan’s recent export controls on semiconductor materials to South Korea during the WTO General Council, which is set to convene on July 23-24. The South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy has announced that it will use the opportunity to advance South Korea’s position among WTO member nations. Considering all 164 member nations take part in the general council, it will be a key opportunity for Seoul to make its stand against Tokyo’s retaliatory economic measures. (Hankyoreh archives)