‘Expanded USFK role’ on tariff negotiation table as part of alliance modernization

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac, left, shakes hands with U.S. Secretary of State and National Security Adviser Marco Rubio during security talks in Washington, D.C., on July 7. Yonhap

A push to expand the role of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) across the Indo-Pacific under the so-called “alliance modernization” framework has entered trade negotiations between Seoul and Washington, marking the first time the security issue has surfaced in the context of bilateral tariff talks.

South Korea is seeking trade concessions, including on tariffs and non-tariff barriers, in return for accepting the U.S. request to recalibrate USFK’s strategic posture, the Hankook Ilbo reported exclusively Monday, citing government sources familiar with the talks.

The alliance modernization issue, however, is expected to be part of a longer-term agenda extending beyond the current round of talks.

“It is true that alliance modernization is being discussed within the framework of a broader security package,” a senior official said on Sunday.

Elements under discussion include strategic flexibility of USFK, increased defense spending, and expanded cooperation in the defense industry.

“We’re asking the U.S. to show flexibility in trade in proportion to our security contributions,” the official added.

The term “alliance modernization” reflects Washington’s desire to extend the U.S.-Korea alliance, historically focused on deterring North Korea, to broader security roles in the Indo-Pacific, including in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea.

While neither side explicitly names China, the shift is widely seen as a move to counter Beijing’s growing military influence in the region.

“Applying the alliance to the Indo-Pacific is not a new idea. It’s been part of our shared understanding for decades,” the official said, citing Article 3 of the 1954 U.S.-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty, which commits both sides to act in case of an armed attack in the Pacific.

Still, there are notable differences. The U.S. wants to expand the operational role of USFK, whereas Seoul prefers to limit such adjustments to American forces only, excluding Korean troops.

Korean negotiators have made clear that even modifying USFK’s role is a sensitive issue, and any such concession should be matched by U.S. flexibility in trade.

U.S. military vehicles are seen at a base in Dongducheon on July 10. Yonhap. The U.S. is pushing to expand USFK’s role under the upgraded alliance. Yonhap

Avoiding anti-China optics a key challenge

“There’s pressure from the U.S. to expand USFK’s strategic flexibility,” another senior official said. “But Korea will keep its forces focused on defense against North Korea.” Both countries acknowledge the need for some role adjustment, but are wary of openly targeting China.

So far, U.S. trade officials have responded coolly to Seoul’s attempt to link security cooperation to trade benefits. Korea had hoped to use its growing defense budget and investment in U.S. weapons systems to argue for reduced burdens in areas such as U.S.-bound investment and tariffs.

While White House National Security Adviser Marco Rubio reportedly expressed understanding during his recent meetings with South Korean officials, sources say that consensus in the security channel has yet to reach the trade negotiators.

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac has made two visits to Washington in recent months, meeting with Rubio, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and USTR representative Jamison Greer to advocate for integrating the alliance modernization framework into trade discussions.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is expected to visit Washington around July 31 for further consultations with Rubio.

“Minister Cho is not directly participating in the trade talks, but his role is to reinforce the value of the alliance and lend support to Korea’s position in the negotiations,” a Foreign Ministry official said.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.