Seoul: Security challenges in the Yellow Sea have prompted South Korea and the United States to agree on modernizing their alliance, including President Donald Trump's approval of Seoul's push for nuclear-powered submarines, according to Acting U.S. Ambassador Kevin Kim.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim made this statement at a forum, highlighting the release of a joint summit fact sheet outlining alliance commitments, underscoring the deep ties between the two nations. Kim emphasized the comprehensive nature of the U.S.-ROK alliance, stating, "This is a simple recognition that America's future depends on Korea, and Korea's future depends on America," during the event marking the launch of the Korea-U.S. Parliamentarians' Union.
Kim pointed out that evolving security challenges in the Korean peninsula and the wider Indo-Pacific region necessitate modernization of the alliance, increased defense spending by Korea, and the pursuit of new capabilities like nuclear-powered submarines. This modernization effort is a response to recent developments in the Yellow Sea, hinting at China's growing assertiveness in the region. The Trump administration has urged allies and Indo-Pacific partners to take on more of the defense burden to counter threats from China.
South Korea has had disputes with China over structures in the Yellow Sea, which Seoul views as potential territorial claims by Beijing. U.S. Navy Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle suggested last week that it is expected for South Korea to use nuclear-powered submarines to counter Chinese threats.
In response to these developments, the Chinese Embassy in Seoul expressed dissatisfaction, urging the U.S. not to disrupt bilateral relations or sow discord. The embassy stated, "The remarks by the U.S. officials are inconsistent with the spirit of consensus reached by the leaders."
The recently released fact sheet outlines commitments to alliance modernization, including Seoul's plan to boost defense spending and the U.S.'s commitment to its ally's defense through troop presence. This modernization is seen as part of a broader strategy to address an assertive China and calls for allies to take on more defense responsibilities.
Kim praised South Korea as "a model ally" and reiterated the strength of the U.S.-ROK alliance, which the joint fact sheet supports by covering agreements on trade, security, and civil nuclear advancements. This includes progress in uranium enrichment and securing fuel supplies for nuclear-powered submarines.