WASHINGTON — South Korea and the United States wrapped up their sixth round of negotiations this week, discussing Seoul's financial contributions to the cost of stationing U.S. Forces Korea (USFK).
According to Yonhap News Agency, the talks, held from Monday to Wednesday in Washington, focused on the Special Measures Agreement (SMA), which governs Seoul's share of expenses related to the USFK. The current six-year SMA is set to expire at the end of next year. The discussions aimed to make substantive progress on issues of mutual interest to both nations. Since 1991, South Korea has shared costs with the U.S. for USFK worker salaries, construction of military facilities, and logistical support. The urgency of these negotiations reflects South Korea's desire to secure an agreement promptly, particularly in light of potential political changes in the U.S. that could complicate future discussions.