US EditionSouth Korea Says No Talks Held over Potential U.S. Troop Withdrawal
- South Korea’s defence ministry denied any talks with the US about withdrawing approximately 4,500 American troops as reported on May 23, 2025.
- The denial came in response to a Wall Street Journal article that referenced unnamed U.S. Military officials discussing a Pentagon proposal to transfer some troops to alternative Indo-Pacific locations, such as Guam.
- Currently, about 28,500 US troops remain stationed in South Korea under a five-year defence cost-sharing agreement, with Seoul committed to a $1.1 billion payment in 2026.
- Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell stated, “The US remains firmly committed to the ROK” and officials warned troop reduction could weaken deterrence against North Korea.
- Despite speculation of troop withdrawal tied to trade talks and strategic flexibility shifts, both governments reaffirm cooperation to maintain a strong joint defence posture amid South Korea's upcoming June election.
18 Articles
18 Articles
Times Live
The Star Kuala LumpurSouth Korea's defence ministry says no talks held with US on troop withdrawal
South Korea's defence ministry said on Friday Seoul and Washington had not had discussions about the withdrawal of some US troops stationed in the country.
South Korea denies US troop withdrawal talks amid report of potential Indo-Pacific shift
South Korea’s military firmly denied that any discussions have taken place with the United States regarding a potential withdrawal of American troops from the peninsula, following a media report suggesting the White House was considering such a move.
Malay Mail
AlKhaleej TodaySeoul says no talks with US on troop withdrawal, reaffirms alliance stability
SEOUL, May 23 — South Korea’s defence ministry said today there have been no talks with Washington on pulling US troops from the South, after a Wall Street Journal report claimed Washington was considering a partial withdrawal. Citing US defence officials, the WSJ report said Washington is considering whether to move around 4,500 troops out of South Korea and deploy them to other locations, including Guam. Washington, South Korea’s long-time key…
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 46% of the sources lean Right
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage
