Tillerson says S. Korea is already paying large amounts to U.S. troops

Tillerson says S. Korea is already paying large amounts to U.S. troops. February. 10, 2017 07:23. by Seung-Heon Lee ddr@donga.com. It was reported, albeit belatedly, that U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson expressed a stance in the U.S. Congress of the intent that “The Republic of Korea is shouldering enough costs to support the American forces stationed on the Korean peninsula.” The remarks came from a statement that Tillerson submitted to Senator Ben Cardin of the Senator Committee on Foreign Relations before his confirmation hearing last month.

Asked about the possibility of withdrawing the U.S. troops from South Korea and Japan in the event of a failed negotiation over costs-sharing arrangements, Tillerson said, “South Korea and Japan are already contributing large amounts to support U.S. forces in their respective countries.” He also added that he is optimistic that future discussions on the issue will continue to be productive and result in equitable burden-sharing arrangements.

It is interpreted that while the U.S. will ask for an increased share of costs to keep the U.S. troops in South Korea, given the intent of Tillerson’s remarks, he will consider the fact that South Korea is already contributing a large sum of money. Last year, South Korea paid 944.1 billion won (825 million U.S. dollars) for the burden sharing.

Some pundits, however, are advising against optimism since the emphasis is placed on “equitable costs-sharing.” Indeed, during the hearing, Tillerson said that the U.S. should make sure that all allies honor their commitments, and that it will not overlook those who do not carry out their duties.