Special MASGA Hats Highlight Shipbuilding Sector's Key Role in Negotiations

The Korean government unveiled specially designed hats bearing the slogan "Make America Shipbuilding Great Again (MASGA)" to underscore the shipbuilding sector's significance in the recent Korea-U.S. tariff negotiations. These hats, a strategic move by the negotiation team, were revealed by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on August 3.

Strategic Preparation and Design

From early June, the ministry prepared several design drafts utilizing ChatGPT, ultimately selecting a design that appealed to President Donald Trump's preferences, including his fondness for red hats and golf. The term MASGA was creatively derived by inserting "Shipbuilding" into Trump's famous "Make America Great Again" slogan.

Successful Negotiations and Future Cooperation

The negotiations culminated on July 31 with an agreement to establish a $150 billion shipbuilding cooperation fund, marking the largest single sector investment. The MASGA initiative was instrumental in breaking negotiation deadlocks, with U.S. officials praising the innovative approach.

Logistical Efforts Behind the Scenes

To meet the U.S. team's urgent request for MASGA hats, the Korean ministry executed a swift delivery operation, ensuring the hats reached Washington, D.C., within 24 hours through a collaborative effort with Korean Air.