US and South Korean officials have returned to the negotiating table Monday, trying to work out a cost-sharing deal for US military costs in Korea, between the $920 million annual payment agreed upon, and the $4.7 billion that President Trump suddenly demanded this month.
Defense officials have struggled to justify the costs as part of US expenses, and rather seem to be focusing on the idea that South Korea has a strong economy and could easily afford the demand without asking too many questions.
In South Korea, however, there is growing criticism of the demand as “highway robbery,” and protests against the “greedy” Americans. US negotiators downplayed that, and expressed optimism that a deal could be made.
South Korean officials have similarly said that they do not believe US troops will be reduced, even though the indications are that South Koren doesn’t intend to pay anywhere near the current demands.
Eventually South Korea will again cave in to US demands, since it is willing to go back to the negotiating table again.
South Korea knows the US will sanction it severely if it does not cave in.
All other countries with US bases are holding their breath.
800 US bases = huge profit.
update:
looks like the South Korean got some balls.
US-South Korea military cost-sharing talks collapse
https://www.presstv.com/Detail/2019/11/19/611567/US-South-Korea-cost-sharing-talks-collapse
What’s the problem? If you want protection you pay for it. Watch your kneecaps.