Seoul, South Korea ? Bulldozing of part of a village began today to make way for the expansion of a U.S. military base amid proests from residents mostly in their 60s and 70s who have vowed not to leave.

The United States plans to move its military headquarters from Seoul and some other bases to Pyeongtaek by 2008 as part of a consolidation of its forces.

Several villages around Pyeongtaek, a city of 360,000 people, would have to be razed for construction of the base. The government has offered residents financial compensation to move out of their homes, but some have strongly objected to the plans.

Some 90 houses in Daechuri will be removed by this week, said an official handling the issue at the Defense Ministry. He asked not to be identified, citing policy.