To the Editor:

Re “Mr. Trump’s Lose-Lose Proposition in Korea” (editorial, Nov. 22):

The failure of the most recent round of talks between the United States and South Korea on how to equitably share the costs of American troops on the peninsula is dangerous to the future of this crucial alliance, which has kept the peace in Northeast Asia for more than six decades. The alliance has also underpinned South Korea’s prosperity and fostered trade and investment relations increasingly beneficial to America.

South Korea is not a free rider. It bolstered military expenditures 7 percent in 2018, reaching $43.1 billion, or 2.6 percent of gross domestic produc t, a level greater than any other major American ally. And South Korea receives zero foreign military aid from American taxpayers while 80 percent o f its arms purchases are of American weapons.

The United States’ request that South Korea shoulder more of its defense burden is reasonable. But the ask should be fair and transparent.

South Korean public opinion remains broadly optimistic about our two countries’ relations, and Congress staunchly supports the alliance. Its value cannot be reduced to a nearsighted balance-sheet calculation by either side.