As U.S. President Donald Trump publicly mentioned that he could reduce U.S. forces stationed in Germany, the Ministry of National Defense said on the 30th that there have been no discussions between Korea and the United States on reducing U.S. Forces Korea.
Jeong Bitna, Spokesperson of the Ministry of National Defense, said at the ministry's regular briefing that day, "The main mission of U.S. Forces Korea is to work with our military to establish a firm combined defense posture to deter and respond to North Korea's aggression and provocations."
She added, "We will continue to consult closely between Korea and the United States to ensure the stable stationing of U.S. Forces Korea and to strengthen the combined defense posture."
Earlier, on the 29th (local time), President Trump said, "The United States is looking at the possibility of reducing the forces in Germany," adding, "A decision will be made soon."
The Trump administration had expressed dissatisfaction, saying Europe was taking an "security free ride," and analysis suggests this is the first time it has mentioned reductions while identifying specific countries.
Accordingly, if U.S. forces stationed in Europe are actually reduced, there could be changes not only in U.S. Forces Korea but also in the size of U.S. Forces Japan.