SEOUL — U.S. and South Korean officials ended talks last week without agreement on revising how much South Korea will contribute next year to the two nations’ military burden-sharing agreement.

According to South Korean government officials and media, the two sides agreed to meet again in early December in Seoul. Members of the Korean negotiating team expected an agreement to be reached over the next two to three months.

Seoul seeks to reduce the $623 million it contributed this year to the upkeep of U.S. forces and installations, saying reduction and realignment plans should mean a lower monetary contribution.

Under an agreement made final last month, the United States will remove 12,500 troops from South Korea over the next three years.

The United States also will close Yongsan Garrison and move the troops there to an expanded base in Pyongtaek.

Under the terms of a 1990 agreement, South Korea has agreed to contribute an amount that fluctuates yearly.

North Korea Korea assails CFC

SEOUL — Days after the U.S. and South Korea marked the 26th anniversary of the Combined Forces Command, North Korea once again has called for its dismantling.

The command, known as CFC, would have operational control of combined U.S. and South Korean forces in a war.

“The CFC started from U.S. purpose of eternally controlling South Korea as its military strategic tool and stepping up its adventurous scheme of a war against the North,” a Pyongyang-run Internet site stated.

“The CFC is a cancer in the peace on the Korean Peninsula and inter-Korean reunification.”

South Korea wage woes

SEOUL — Pay disparity between enlisted soldiers and officers in the Republic of Korea Army is drawing more attention, as the military upgrades soldiers’ quarters and bases.

According to Ministry of National Defense statistics, a private second class gets paid 29,900 won (about $25) a month, including allowances.

A sergeant gets 39,700 won a month (about $35) and a 50 percent pay bonus every three months.

According to the Korea Herald, members of the National Assembly are moving to get a pay increase for the soldiers.