Seoul:South Korea's foreign ministry has announced reaching a five-year Special Measures Agreement (SMA) with the United States concerning the cost-sharing for the maintenance of approximately 28,500 U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) personnel.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the agreement outlines that South Korea will contribute 1.52 trillion won (US$1.14 billion) in 2026 to host the American forces, marking an 8.3 percent increase from the previous year's payment. From 2027, adjustments to this contribution will align with the consumer price growth rate, with any increase capped at 5 percent.

In other significant developments, South and North Korea have restored their direct communication lines after a 55-day suspension initiated by Pyongyang. The suspension was in response to an annual joint military exercise between South Korea and the United States, which North Korea views as a rehearsal for invasion.

Additionally, historical events include the 2007 announcement by South and North Korea of the "Declaration of the Advancement of South-North Korean Relations, Peace and Prosperity." This followed a summit between South Korea's President Roh Moo-hyun and North Korean leader Kim Jong-il. In 2018, a South Korean delegation visited North Korea to mark the anniversary of this declaration.

On the cultural front, the 2014 Asian Games concluded in Incheon, South Korea, with China leading the medal tally, followed by South Korea and Japan. North Korea participated by sending a high-ranking delegation to the closing ceremony.