US Department of Defense Reaffirms Security Commitments to South Korea

The US Department of Defense avoided a direct answer when asked about the possibility of reducing US Forces Korea following an announcement that the US is considering troop reductions in Germany. A Defense Department official responded to Yonhap News's inquiry on September 30 (local time) regarding potential troop reductions in Korea, stating, "We do not comment on potential force posture adjustments." This appears to be a reaffirmation of the principle that plans for the deployment of US troops worldwide are not disclosed externally.

Immediately after US President Donald Trump mentioned the possibility of reducing US troops stationed in Germany, concerns resurfaced in South Korea about potential reductions in US Forces Korea. Previously, the commander of US Forces Korea had stated in a US House of Representatives hearing that the focus is on "capability rather than troop numbers."

However, the department made its position clear that security commitments to South Korea remain unwavering. A Defense Department official emphasized that US Forces Korea are focused on deterrence and readiness. The US commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea is unchanged, and the ROK-US alliance continues to support stability on the Korean Peninsula, the official added.