South Korea and the United States plan to halve their joint military drills, a move reported by CNBC alongside President Trump's reported push for a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Key facts
- Seoul and Washington are set to halve their joint military drills, according to CNBC.
- CNBC reported the reduction comes as President Trump reportedly seeks a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
- The report was published by CNBC on 19 August 2026.
- The precise timing and scope of any potential summit were not detailed, and further specifics on the changes to the drills were not provided.
South Korea and the United States are set to reduce their joint military exercises by half, according to a report from CNBC. The report said the move comes as President Trump reportedly seeks a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
CNBC reported that the reduction is tied to Trump’s reported interest in arranging a summit with Kim.
The precise timing and scope of any potential summit were not detailed in the report. Further specifics regarding the changes to the joint drills were also not provided.
Why it matters
CNBC's report points to a possible shift in how the two allies are approaching North Korea, though the details and any outcome remain unconfirmed.
Frequently asked questions
Why are the US and South Korea reducing their joint drills?
According to CNBC, the reduction comes as President Trump reportedly seeks a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
By how much will the joint military exercises be reduced?
CNBC reports that the joint drills are set to be halved.
Has a Trump-Kim summit been confirmed?
The report indicates Trump is reportedly seeking a summit with Kim Jong Un, but no specific details on timing or confirmation were provided in the source.