Trump Seeks US Ownership of Military Base Land in South Korea

During a summit at the White House, President Donald Trump proposed that the United States should seek ownership of the land under its military bases in South Korea, rather than continuing the current lease arrangement, a suggestion that raised concerns in Seoul given the existing Status of Forces Agreement which affirms South Korean sovereignty over the land. The discussions between Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae-myung also covered broader issues including the U.S.-South Korea alliance, North Korea, and economic cooperation, with Trump expressing hopes for progress in relations with North Korea and potential meetings with its leader Kim Jong Un. The summit resulted in multiple agreements, including a $150 billion investment pledge from South Korean companies, a nearly $50 billion aircraft purchase by Korean Air, and cooperation in shipbuilding and energy sectors, building on a recent trade deal that lowered tariffs on South Korean exports. Despite South Korean President Lee's lobbying efforts, Trump insisted that South Korea would adhere to the terms of the recent tariff agreement involving significant investment commitments in the U.S. Both leaders expressed optimism about strengthening security cooperation and economic ties while aiming for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.