SEOUL, May 23 — South Korea’s defence ministry today dismissed claims of discussions with Washington about withdrawing US troops from the country, following a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report suggesting the US was considering a partial troop relocation.
SEOUL, May 23 — South Korea’s defence ministry today dismissed claims of discussions with Washington about withdrawing US troops from the country, following a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report suggesting the US was considering a partial troop relocation.
The WSJ report, citing US defence officials, indicated Washington was weighing the redeployment of about 4,500 troops from South Korea to other locations, including Guam.
Currently, around 28,500 American troops are stationed in South Korea as part of a long-standing alliance aimed at deterring threats from nuclear-armed North Korea.
Ahead of the last US election, Donald Trump stated that if re-elected, he would demand significantly higher payments from Seoul to maintain the American military presence.
In response to the WSJ report, South Korea’s defence ministry stated: “There has been no discussion whatsoever between South Korea and the United States regarding the withdrawal of the United States Forces Korea.”
Last year, both countries signed a new five-year cost-sharing agreement, under which Seoul agreed to increase its contribution by 8.3 per cent to 1.52 trillion won (RM4.6 billion) for 2026.
The ministry emphasized that US Forces Korea (USFK) remain a “core element” of the bilateral alliance, maintaining a robust joint defence posture that helps deter North Korean aggression and uphold peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region.
“We will continue to work closely with the US to further strengthen this vital role,” it added.
When contacted by AFP, US Forces Korea declined to comment, saying any statement should come from Washington. — AFP
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