US plans bigger troop cut in South Korea, official says

WASHINGTON - The United States will lower troop levels in South Korea beyond a previously agreed reduction to 25,000, but the cut will not be "substantial", a senior defence official said overnight.

"As the adjustments (in capabilities) take place, there will be a reduction in the number of US forces located in the Republic of Korea beyond the level of 25,000 that we've currently agreed to," the official said.

"Will it be a substantial reduction? I do not believe so."

- REUTERS