U.S. Defense Secretary praises South Korea's planned defense spending increase

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth praised South Korea's planned defense spending increase, stating the ally will assume a greater role in its own defense against North Korea. Hegseth expressed encouragement over Seoul's commitment to boost military capabilities, which will enhance its conventional deterrence against North Korean threats. South Korea's president requested an 8.2% defense spending hike to modernize systems and reduce U.S. reliance. The alliance, while focused on North Korea, also considers broader regional contingencies. Discussions included maintaining U.S. warships in South Korea, leveraging its shipbuilding expertise.