The US and South Korea maintain "close coordination" despite the reduction in military exercises.

On Monday, August 24, 2026, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio and South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun held discussions regarding the ongoing security partnership between their two nations. The officials emphasized that the United States and South Korea maintain a close level of coordination despite a recent decision by the U.S. to reduce the scale of joint military maneuvers.

The dialogue underscores the continued strategic alliance between Washington and Seoul in the face of regional security adjustments. The meeting serves to reaffirm the commitment of both governments to collaborative defense efforts despite the modification of operational training exercises.