Seoul: A U.S. diplomat on Friday reaffirmed the United States' "ironclad" security commitment to South Korea, but called on the Asian ally to make the "highest-level" efforts to strengthen its own defense capabilities. In an interview with Yonhap News Agency, State Department deputy spokesperson Mignon Houston made the remarks amid expectations that U.S. President Donald Trump's administration might request South Korea to bolster its defense spending and military capabilities as it prioritizes deterring threats from an assertive China.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Houston also emphasized that addressing North Korea's nuclear issue remains a "priority" for Washington and that the Trump administration is looking forward to cooperating closely with the government of new South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. She highlighted South Korea as a strong and capable partner, noting that President Trump believes in South Korea's ability to reinforce its defense capabilities at the highest level.
Houston expressed that while the United States will maintain its military readiness and world-class capabilities, it expects its partners to similarly commit to enhancing their defense measures. Her comments responded to inquiries about potential renegotiations of a defense cost-sharing deal between Seoul and Washington, in light of the Trump administration's call for increased defense spending by allies.
The Pentagon has urged Asian allies to aim for a spending target of 5 percent of their GDP on defense, a benchmark that NATO member states have recently agreed to achieve by 2035. South Korea's current defense budget is approximately 2.32 percent of its GDP, as reported by Seoul's defense ministry.
Houston dismissed concerns that North Korea's nuclear issue might be sidelined as the Trump administration deals with other global challenges, stressing the administration's commitment to the complete denuclearization of North Korea. She reiterated the transparency of the administration's support for the Korean Peninsula and the region.
The deputy spokesperson also underscored the importance of trilateral cooperation between South Korea, Japan, and the U.S. She highlighted the significance of improving relations between Seoul and Tokyo and Washington's commitment to close cooperation with South Korea's new government.
Beyond security, Houston stressed the importance of economic collaboration with South Korea, given its technological expertise and role in global supply chains. She expressed optimism about reaching trade agreements with South Korea and other partners, emphasizing fair and balanced trade benefiting American workers and businesses.
Finally, Houston clarified that Washington's trade policy aims to ensure fair trade rather than alter diplomatic relationships with allies, noting that discussions on tariffs and trade agreements are ongoing. While there is no announcement regarding a summit between President Lee and President Trump, the State Department remains engaged in pursuing mutually beneficial economic ties.