US State Department Tells Korean Government "Defense Cost Negotiations Require Further Compromise"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] The U.S. Department of State has urged the South Korean government to make a further compromise in the South Korea-U.S. defense cost-sharing negotiations.

On the 27th (local time), according to VOA (Voice of America), a spokesperson from the State Department's press office stated, "During the defense cost negotiations, we have adjusted and compromised," emphasizing, "In recent weeks, we have shown flexibility to reach an agreement acceptable to both sides." The spokesperson also added, "We hope the South Korean government will also make further compromises."

This remark from the U.S. State Department official came in response to a request for comment regarding the South Korean government's policy of advance wage payments to Korean workers employed by the U.S. Forces Korea, who have been placed on forced unpaid leave since the 1st. It is known that the South Korean government previously notified the U.S. side of its plan to directly advance 70% of the existing wages to the workers.

The negotiations have entered a prolonged phase after President Donald Trump rejected the tentative agreement reached by the South Korea-U.S. defense cost-sharing negotiation teams. The State Department official said, "It is our policy not to publicly confirm or comment on matters conveyed through diplomatic channels."

Nevertheless, the official reiterated the previous stance. The spokesperson explained, "The U.S. is striving to reach a mutually acceptable agreement," adding, "Our longstanding position is that South Korea can and should contribute to a more equitable cost-sharing."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.