Overview
- South Korea's foreign ministry said it has received no proposal from Washington to transfer title to land hosting U.S. Forces Korea.
- Officials noted the U.S.–ROK Status of Forces Agreement provides a sovereign grant of use without cost and requires land be returned when no longer needed.
- Experts in Seoul characterized President Trump's call for U.S. ownership as leverage for security talks and burden-sharing negotiations.
- Former U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton said the idea reflects Trump's real estate perspective, citing past base relocations such as Yongsan.
- Trump appeared to reference Camp Humphreys, the largest overseas U.S. Army base, as President Lee signaled plans to raise defense spending.