WASHINGTON/SEOUL, Jan 26 (Reuters): President Donald Trump said on Monday he was increasing tariffs on South Korean imports into the U.S. related to autos, lumber and pharmaceuticals to 25%, while criticizing the ally's legislature for failing to enact a trade deal with Washington.

"South Korea's Legislature is not living up to its Deal with the United States," Trump wrote on social media.

"Because the Korean Legislature hasn't enacted our Historic Trade Agreement, which is their prerogative, I am hereby increasing South Korean TARIFFS on Autos, Lumber, Pharma, and all other Reciprocal TARIFFS, from 15% to 25%."

It was not immediately clear when the tariff hike would take effect, or what specifically triggered Trump's directive.

South Korea's benchmark KOSPI index (.KS11), fell 0.7% in early trade on Tuesday, while the won weakened 0.5% against the dollar after hitting a near one-month high on Monday.

The White House and the U.S. Trade Representative's office did not respond immediately to requests for comment.

South Korea's presidential Blue House said on Tuesday that Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan, who is currently in Canada, would visit the U.S. soon and meet with Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick. Kim was scheduled to be in the U.S. from January 28-31, a ministry statement showed.

The Blue House said it had not been officially notified about the U.S. tariff hikes, but South Korea's presidential adviser would meet with related ministries to discuss measures.

A spokesperson for South Korea's ruling Democratic Party did not have an immediate comment when asked about Trump's social media post criticizing the legislature.

South Korea's National Assembly usually approves bills only when regular sessions or extraordinary sessions are scheduled. The next bill review sessions are due to start on February 3.

Trump has previously threatened other tariff hikes and in some cases delayed them or not followed through.

Photo from Reuters