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2mo ago

South Korea Confronts U.S. Defense Spending Push as Lee-Trump Summit Talks Advance

Washington’s call for Seoul to boost its defense budget to match NATO’s new 5 percent GDP target will be central in upcoming security consultations.

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac (L) shakes hands with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a meeting on the sidelines of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization summit in the Netherlands on June 24, 2025, in this photo provided by the presidential office. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Overview

  • National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac returned from the NATO summit after meeting Secretary of State Marco Rubio and securing agreement to arrange an early meeting between Presidents Lee Jae Myung and Donald Trump.
  • NATO allies endorsed raising defense spending to 5 percent of GDP by 2035, a benchmark the U.S. is now pressing South Korea to meet.
  • Wi Sung-lac confirmed that U.S. officials have demanded South Korea increase its military budget in line with the broader NATO trend.
  • Seoul and Washington will address these defense spending demands during upcoming bilateral security consultations ahead of the planned summit.
  • Secretary Rubio may visit Seoul around the ASEAN Regional Forum in early July to further discussions on alliance strengthening and budget commitments.