The United States and South Korea are holding their fifth round of talks to narrow the gap over how much Seoul should pay next year to host US military forces.
The two-day meeting began on Tuesday in Seoul. The bilateral talks were launched in September.
The United States is asking South Korea to contribute about 5 billion dollars in 2020, or more than five times the amount this year.
South Korea insists that the cost-sharing must be fair and reasonable.
Observers say the two sides remain far apart and it may be difficult to reach a deal this year.
South Korean media report that the country may seek concessions by referring to a plan to contribute to the US-led initiative in the Strait of Hormuz.
Concerns are growing that the rift on the cost-sharing talks may harm the alliance.
Japan is closely watching as the meeting unfolds, since it's due to start discussions with the US next year on the cost of stationing American troops in the country.
NHK
