Source: Seoul Daily
The South Korean Ministry of Defense reaffirmed its previous position that there was no discussion between South Korea and the U.S. regarding foreign media reports that the U.S. Department of Defense presented options for reducing U.S. troops. Moon Hong-sik, deputy spokesman for the South Korean Ministry of Defense, said, "We have talked about the issue of the U.S. military in South Korea several times," adding, "There has been no discussion between South Korea and the U.S. regarding the adjustment of the size of the U.S. forces in South Korea.
Asked if there is a possibility of a discussion at the defense ministerial talks between South Korea and the U.S., a Blue House representative replied, "South Korean and U.S. defense authorities are discussing holding a meeting of defense ministers of the two countries by telephone. We're in close consultation." The representative added, "We understand that the timing of the telephone talks is under discussion and that the issue of U.S. troop adjustments in South Korea will not be discussed." Earlier, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on July 17th (local time) that the U.S. Department of Defense presented an option to reduce U.S. troops in South Korea to the White House.
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