Overview

• President Trump said South Korea pays “very little” for stationing U.S. troops and should finance its own defense.
• He recalled securing a $3 billion commitment during his first term and urged a $10 billion annual payment, accusing President Biden of cutting contributions “to nothing.”
• Under the 12th Special Measures Agreement, Seoul is set to pay 1.52 trillion won next year to support 28,500 U.S. Forces Korea personnel.
• Seoul’s foreign ministry announced it will fully comply with the existing 2026-2030 SMA terms.
• Trump’s defense spending demands come as Washington prepares to impose 25 percent reciprocal tariffs on South Korean imports starting August 1.