A White House official says President Barack Obama plans to travel to the Detroit area Friday with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, who will be in the United States for an official state visit.

The official said the trip will highlight the benefits of a pending trade agreement between the U.S. and South Korea. Congress is scheduled to vote on that agreement and on pacts with Colombia and Panama next week.

The official spoke on the condition of anonymity because the White House has not officially announced the trip.

Lee and his wife will attend a state dinner Thursday at the White House.

Obama is fond of saying that if Americans can buy South Korea-made Kias and Hyundais, he wants to see South Koreans driving Fords and Chevys and Chryslers.