South Korea supports Trump's offer of dialogue with North Korea despite disagreements over military exercises

South Korea has been positive about US President Donald Trump's efforts to open a dialogue with North Korea. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung wrote on

The president wrote that he “completely” agrees with the US President that South Korea must be responsible for security on the Korean peninsula. Trump had previously announced a significant reduction in military maneuvers with South Korea, citing, among other things, his "very good" relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

South Korean foreign minister was not informed

At the request of the USA, the ongoing military exercise entitled Ulchi Freedom Shield should only last half as long as planned and end on Friday. According to South Korean media reports, shortening a major maneuver in this way has never happened before. South Korean Foreign Minister Co Hyun was not informed of Trump's plan before it was published online.

North Korea's regime continues to clearly criticize the military maneuvers. Changing the scope and duration of the military exercises does not change their "provocative and offensive character," as Kim Yo-jong, the ruler's sister, told the North Korean news agency KCNA.

Since the Korean War, South Korea has been dependent on the military protection of the USA, which largely ensures the country's security against attacks from outside. There are currently around 28,500 US soldiers stationed in the country. According to Trump, North Korea has ⁠57 "very powerful nuclear weapons." South Korea, however, estimated the number of North Korea's nuclear weapons at between 80 and 120. According to the Stockholm peace research institute Sipri, there are around 60.

Transparency note: The name of President Lee Jae Myung has been corrected in the text and caption.