US army apologises to South Korea over parking scuffle

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http://www.todayonline.com/World/EDC120708-0000035/US-army-apologises-to-South-Korea-over-parking-scuffle

The chief of United States Forces Korea (USFK) apologised today for an incident near one of the main US bases in South Korea during which military police handcuffed local residents over a parking infringement.

The US military's presence on the peninsula is a sensitive issue, and incidents involving American servicemen have set off huge protests in the past calling for their withdrawal.

Last week's incident occurred at Pyeongtaek, 70km south of Seoul and home to Osan Air Base, when a patrol of US military policemen began arguing with a local car owner over his parking spot, local police said.

The incident sparked a scuffle and a crowd quickly gathered at the scene, prompting the military police to handcuff three locals to take them for questioning.

"I am very sorry this occurred. I want to express my sincere apology to the individuals and community affected by the incident," General James D Thurman said in a written statement.

The US has about 28,000 troops in South Korea, in the allies' defense against North Korea. The two Koreas are still technically at war after signing only an armistice treaty to end their 1950-53 war.