Seoul: South Korea and the US have not engaged in discussions regarding the downsizing or withdrawal of American forces stationed in the country, according to Foreign Minister Nominee Cho Hyun. Cho addressed these concerns in a statement submitted to the parliamentary Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee as part of his upcoming confirmation hearing.

According to Anadolu Agency, Cho emphasized that no issues regarding the reduction of the 28,500-strong US Forces Korea (USFK) have been discussed. Speculation had arisen suggesting that the Trump administration might consider downsizing USFK or redefining their role to focus on countering Chinese threats. Cho assured that there is broad recognition in the US Congress and academic circles about the necessity of maintaining USFK at its current levels.

Cho also addressed the Trump administration's demand for increased financial contributions from South Korea for the maintenance of USFK. He reaffirmed Seoul's position that the five-year Special Measures Agreement (SMA) signed last year is not open for renegotiation. Under the 12th SMA, South Korea will contribute $1.1 billion next year for USFK's upkeep, an agreement established during the Biden administration for the 2026-30 period.

In line with President Lee Jae-myung's administration, Cho reiterated the goal of reducing military tensions and fostering trust through renewed dialogue with North Korea. He highlighted the importance of reviving US-North Korea talks to address Pyongyang's nuclear issues. "While closely cooperating with the US, the government will work to create conditions for dialogue on North Korea's nuclear issues and promote negotiations between the US and North Korea," Cho stated.