Seoul: The nominee for the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) emphasized the importance of conducting joint military drills between South Korea and the United States "normally" to ensure their combined readiness. Air Force Gen. Jin Yong-sung articulated this stance amidst ongoing discussions between Seoul and Washington, which have postponed some field training associated with this year's annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise in an effort to improve relations with North Korea.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Gen. Jin Yong-sung expressed his views in a written response submitted to a minor opposition party lawmaker in preparation for his confirmation hearing. He stated, "I believe the South Korea-U.S. joint drills should take place normally to maintain a steadfast combined readiness posture." The North Korean government has consistently criticized these joint exercises, viewing them as preparations for an invasion.

Addressing North Korea's latest developments in intercontinental ballistic missile technology, Gen. Jin noted that the country has not yet achieved the reentry atmospheric technology necessary to ensure its warhead's survival. He also mentioned that North Korea is poised to conduct nuclear tests at any time, pending the decision of its leader, Kim Jong-un. To counter these threats, Gen. Jin committed to further strengthening Seoul's three-axis deterrence system.

Gen. Jin, who was nominated as the top military officer earlier this month, is scheduled for a confirmation hearing at the National Assembly on Wednesday. Following this, President Lee Jae Myung is expected to formally appoint him.