U.S. House Strengthens Restrictions on Reducing U.S. Forces Korea in Defense Budget Bill Draft

The U.S. House of Representatives has strengthened provisions in the draft of next year's defense budget bill to maintain the current level of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). This move is seen as Congress expanding its system of checks, amid growing concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump's alliance policy.

On the 28th (local time), the U.S. House Armed Services Committee included in the draft National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2027 a clause extending the existing restriction on reducing USFK troop numbers through fiscal year 2027. The current provision prohibits the use of budget funds to reduce U.S. Forces Korea below the current level of 28,500 troops.

The NDAA for fiscal year 2026 also stipulates that no funds authorized by this law may be used to reduce U.S. Forces Korea below 28,500 personnel. The new draft extends this restriction through fiscal year 2027.

Notably, the scope of budget restrictions has been broadened. While the current law limits only funds authorized under the NDAA, the new draft includes funds allocated under other laws applying to fiscal years 2026 and 2027. This means that not only funds based on the National Defense Authorization Act but also funds appropriated under other laws cannot be used to reduce U.S. Forces Korea.

This provision is viewed as a safeguard that would allow Congress to block any attempt by President Trump to significantly reduce U.S. Forces Korea. However, under existing law, if the administration submits to the relevant congressional committees a statement that the reduction aligns with U.S. national security interests or that consultations have been held with South Korea, Japan, or United Nations Command member states, the budget restriction can be lifted after 60 days. As the draft for next year simply extends the existing clause, it is expected that this exception will also continue to apply.

The House draft also includes provisions to check unilateral presidential decisions regarding the reduction and redeployment of U.S. troops stationed in Europe. After President Trump ordered a reduction of U.S. forces in Germany following conflicts with allies during the Iran war, there have been growing concerns both inside and outside the U.S. over alliance management.

However, the current draft is not final. The NDAA must pass both the House and the Senate, undergo reconciliation between the two chambers, and be signed by the President before taking effect. During this process, language related to U.S. Forces Korea may be revised.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.