US Defense Secretary Praises South Korea's 8.2% Military Budget Increase for Self-Defense Enhancement

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth commended South Korea's decision to increase its military budget by 8.2%, a move aimed at enhancing the country's ability to independently defend against North Korean threats and modernize its military arsenal. This budget boost is part of a broader strategy to strengthen South Korea's conventional defense capabilities, allowing the U.S. to focus more on countering China's regional influence. Hegseth emphasized the importance of the U.S.-South Korea alliance in maintaining regional security, highlighting cooperation such as plans to maintain and repair U.S. warships in South Korea utilizing the nation's advanced shipbuilding capabilities. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung urged lawmakers to approve the increased defense spending, stressing the need to reduce reliance on U.S. military support while addressing the dangerous security environment. Both leaders affirmed their commitment to regional stability, with Hegseth noting flexibility for regional contingencies while prioritizing deterrence against North Korean provocations. The alliance remains a critical element in managing evolving threats, balancing defense modernization with diplomatic coordination.