Kim Moon-soo, the People Power Party presidential candidate, urged Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party of Korea candidate, on the 23rd to clarify his firm position regarding the Trump administration's consideration of the 'withdrawal of U.S. troops from South Korea.'
On the same day, Kim noted on Facebook, citing reports about the withdrawal consideration of 4,500 U.S. troops stationed in South Korea under the Trump administration, that "While it is not an official review or announcement by the U.S. government, the issue of reducing U.S. troops is not just a matter of troop movement; it is a critical issue directly linked to South Korea's security."
He continued, "Concerns are spreading that if Lee Jae-myung becomes president, the withdrawal of U.S. troops may become a reality," and added, "I hope that he apologizes for his past statements about occupation and clarifies a firm stance on the South Korea-U.S. alliance."
He emphasized that he would consistently pursue a firm South Korea-U.S. alliance.
He stated, "I will continue to pursue practical measures based on the foundation of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, such as ▲ strengthening the execution capability of extended deterrence ▲ upgrading the South Korean three-axis system ▲ and nuclear sharing in a NATO-style without hesitation."
He added, "Once the new government is inaugurated, I will immediately push for a South Korea-U.S. summit and will closely discuss measures to strengthen the stationing of U.S. troops and extended deterrence through official diplomatic channels."
Kim said, "What is needed now is not 'thank you' or 'you're welcome,' but a strategy and capability to protect national interests," and added, "I will safeguard South Korea's security with capabilities, not just words."
Within the party, there were also criticisms of Lee Jae-myung's view on security, lending support to Kim's demands. People Power Party lawmaker Kang Min-guk pointed out on Facebook that "Lee referred to U.S. troops as 'occupying forces' during the last presidential election, and he described the South Korea-U.S.-Japan summit in August 2023 as 'a blunder that turns the wheel of history back to before liberation.'" He added, "Lee's perception of diplomacy and security will be the worst risk for investors, a shackle for corporations, and a threat to the public," urging that he must clarify his position on past anti-American statements and apologize to the public.
Meanwhile, on the same day, The Wall Street Journal reported that, as of the 22nd (local time), the Trump administration was considering a plan to transfer about 4,500 of the 28,500 U.S. troops stationed in South Korea to Guam and other regions.