Honolulu – This week, South Korea and the United States commenced negotiations on their defense cost-sharing arrangements for the upcoming years, with talks taking place in Honolulu. Linda Specht, the U.S. senior advisor and lead negotiator for security agreements at the State Department, reported on the initial discussions concerning the new Special Measures Agreement (SMA), which is due to be renewed by the end of next year.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the negotiations, which ran from Tuesday to Thursday, aimed to define the financial responsibilities of Seoul in supporting the stationing of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). The current SMA, which is the 11th of its kind, will expire soon, prompting both nations to outline their visions for the 12th iteration. Details on the specific visions were not disclosed, but Specht emphasized the commitment of both nations to enhance the readiness and sustainability of their combined defense capabilities under the upcoming agreement. She highlighted the longstanding cooperation since 1991, where Seoul has contributed to various aspects of logistical support for USFK, including payroll for Korean workers, construction projects, and operational facilities.