Washington: South Korea has proposed a comprehensive "package deal" incorporating both economic and security elements in ongoing tariff discussions with the United States, according to National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac. Speaking after his visit to Washington, Wi highlighted the need for an early summit involving President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump to advance the negotiations.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Wi's discussions in Washington involved critical meetings with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other senior officials, focusing on trade negotiations and broader alliance issues. During the visit, Trump communicated via letter to President Lee, announcing that the United States plans to impose 25 percent tariffs on all South Korean imports starting August 1. This move effectively extends the initial tariff deadline, providing more time for negotiations.
Wi stressed the importance of broadening the scope of discussions to include trade, security, and alliance-related issues during his meeting with Rubio. He emphasized the need for a holistic approach by considering a comprehensive package in the negotiations. To facilitate progress on these matters, Wi proposed an early summit between President Lee and President Trump, which received support from Rubio, although no specific date was discussed.
Responding to Trump's assertion that South Korea contributes minimally to U.S. military support, Wi defended South Korea's contributions to the 28,500-strong U.S. Forces Korea. He cited the Special Measures Agreement (SMA) signed between the allies, which outlines financial commitments. Under the 12th SMA for 2026-2030, South Korea's contribution is set to increase to 1.52 trillion won (US$1.11 billion) next year.
Wi highlighted that South Korea's defense spending is in line with international trends and emphasized the potential for further growth. Following Trump's remarks, Seoul's foreign ministry confirmed its commitment to the existing defense cost-sharing deal, affirming the validity and effect of the 12th SMA.
Additionally, the Pentagon recently stated that South Korea and other Asian allies are expected to align with the new "global standard" of spending 5 percent of their GDP on defense, similar to targets set for NATO allies.