The Republic of Korea (ROK) consulted with the United States often and adequately before deciding to end a military intelligence pact with Japan amid a trade conflict, said ROK's presidential Blue House Friday, according to Yonhap.

The ROK said Thursday that it has decided to terminate the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) with Japan amid a trade spat between the two countries.

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"It's true that the U.S. hoped for the extension of the agreement," ROK Deputy National Security Adviser Kim Hyun-chong said in a press briefing, referring to Washington's comments that said it was disappointed and concerned over Seoul's decision.

Kim said it was "natural" for Washington to be disappointed, reiterating that the ROK had "sufficient communication and consultation" with the U.S. on the matter, especially through their presidential national security councils (NSCs).

Earlier Friday, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Tokyo still expects the ROK to keep its promises on the contentious issue of wartime forced labor and to work to rebuild trust.

Japanese Minister of Defence Takeshi Iwaya said on the same day that ROK's decision to end the GSOMIA was regrettable, urging Seoul to "make a wise decision," referring to the missile launch by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), which poses a growing national security threat to both countries.

(With input from agencies)

(Cover: An official of the Blue House announces the ROK's decision to end the GSOMIA in Seoul, ROK, August 22, 2019. /VCG Photo)