The deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system in South Korea came one step closer to reality on Monday afternoon, with the Lotte Group agreeing to a deal with the ROK government to provide a golf course for the deployment.

The agreement between the government and one of South Korea’s largest conglomerates comes after five months of discussions.

Amid strong opposition from China, South Korea and the U.S. agreed earlier this month to deploy THAAD this year, as scheduled.

“The Ministry of the National Defense (MND) and Lotte Skyhill Seongju Country Club will sign an exchange contract