Seoul: The chief of the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) emphasized the strategic importance of South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines by grouping them as a "strategic triangle" for regional security cooperation. This perspective is based on an "east-up" map that places the east at the top, rather than the traditional north-up orientation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Gen. Xavier Brunson highlighted the significance of the east-up mapping approach, which visually emphasizes the areas south of the Korean Peninsula, including Taiwan and the Philippines. This mapping style contrasts with conventional maps that show North Korea and Russia to the north of South Korea. Brunson's remarks were made amid heightened U.S. calls for "collective defense" and increased emphasis on "strategic flexibility" in response to growing Sino-U.S. tensions.
In an article featured on the USFK website, Brunson explained the benefits of viewing South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines as part of a strategic triangle, rather than as isolated bilateral relationships. He noted that this perspective showcases their collective potential for regional security. Brunson clarified that the goal is not to form a new alliance, but to identify practical ways to coordinate based on geographic ties.
Brunson underscored that this strategic geometry enhances the collective ability to maintain regional stability and reinforces the mission on the Korean Peninsula, which includes deterring aggression from the North. He highlighted the unique capabilities of each country: South Korea's central depth, Japan's technological and maritime advantages, and the Philippines' access to key southern sea lanes.
The USFK commander further elaborated on how South Korea's strategic position can mitigate the geographical challenges of the Indo-Pacific region. He noted that Korea serves as a natural strategic pivot, considering its proximity to major regional players such as Pyongyang, Beijing, and Vladivostok. Forces stationed on the Korean Peninsula are strategically placed to address threats from the north and counter Chinese activities in nearby waters.
The concept of strategic flexibility and the potential for adjusting the role of the 28,500-strong USFK has been a topic of discussion in the South Korea-U.S. alliance. This is particularly relevant in light of China's growing assertiveness and the strengthening military ties between North Korea and Russia. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mentioned the possibility of reviewing flexibility for regional contingencies, including a potential crisis in the Taiwan Strait.
North Korea has criticized the east-up map, labeling it a "map for invasion." In a state media report from July, North Korea claimed the map reveals a U.S. intention to invade Asia.