Quotes of the Day:

“If you were to look up the word rhetoric in the dictionary, it would tell you more or less the following: Rhetoric is the art of using language to persuade or influence others. It would tell you, too, that the etymology of the word started in Greek and traveled through Latin to get to us. If you were to look up the word polemic, you would find, perhaps to your surprise, that its root is from the Greek word for war. A polemic, originally a theological term, is defined as language used to create controversy in contesting a thesis or point of view. Polemics is making war, or rather pursuing conflict, with words instead of literal, physical weapons. So rhetoric and polemic are closely related concepts, but they are not exactly the same.”

- Adam Garfinkle, Political Writing: A Guide to the Essentials

"I ask not for any crown, but that which all may win; not try to conquer any world except the one within."

- Louisa May Alcott

“And the world is my country, all mankind are my brother-in-law, and to do good is my religion.” 

– Thomas Paine

1. Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance

2. 55th Security Consultative Meeting Joint Communique

3. Secretary of Defense Joint Press Conference With Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense

4. S. Korea, U.S. revise 'tailored deterrence strategy' on N. Korea

5. N. Korea slams S. Korea-UNC defense chief meeting as attempt for 'new war of aggression'

6. S. Korea, US revise deterrence strategy amid growing NK threats

7. S. Korea, US to step up data sharing on NK missiles

8. Defense chief hails UNC troops' sacrifice ahead of ministerial meeting with UNC member states

9. Yoon calls for combined defense posture should North conduct a Hamas-style attack

10. If Trump returns (potential effects on the ROK)

11. North Korea calls UN command a 'war tool' of U.S., repeats demand for its dissolution

12. US, S Korea elevate ties to global alliance amid security challenges

13. ＜Inside N. Korea＞Speaking to a Border Guard (1) Landmine Burial at the Korea-China Border? “Even soldiers are afraid because they don’t know where they’re buried”

14. Korean War veteran still attempting to get Purple Heart

1. Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance

Disappointing. There can be no free and open INDOPACIFIC without a solution to the "Korea question" and the achievement of a free and unified Korea. This is a status quo strategy - a stable Korean peninsula with the continued existence of a mafia-like crime family cult known as the Kim family regime in north Korea, and north Korea as a continued rogue nuclear state where we simply try to deter Kim Jong Un. It does not even mention denuclearization.  

I am reminded of military leaders who have said I do not want to give myself a mission I might not be able to accomplish: our military leaders accept neither decnuelarization nor a free and unified Korea. The second is much more likely to happen and is achievable and it will facilitate accomplishment of the first. But not if we do not prepare for and pursue it.

Yes, the Camp David Summit is mentioned and the authors can imply such mention must include a free and unified Korea. But for a vision to be visionary it must envision the end state, or the acceptable durable political arrangement that will protect, sustain, and advance the ROK/US alliance interests. I know the military planners will argue that unification is a political process not a military one. While technically correct, the fact is the military will have to provide support to the political process. And if the military does not accomplish or support accomplishing the political object the military operation cannot be considered a success or victorious. And why can't we heed Liddel-Hart's advice?

"If you concentrate exclusively on victory, while no thought for the after effect, you may be too exhausted to profit by peace, while it is almost certain that the peace will be a bad one, containing the germs of another war."

B.H. Liddel-Hart

Yes I am disappointed because the vision does not have an eye on the prize. However, in all fairness, this is a very good vision that does take into account the security situation and changes in both the north and South and ain the international community. It is modernizing the military relations and mechanisms for combined defense. And that is good. Though I will be looking forward to the implementation of a combined information campaign to exploit these new arrangements and mechanisms. There are multiple themes and messages that can be derived from this to support deterrence. I look forward to seeing the effective messaging from the alliance. Surely there is a comprehensive supporting information plan with this vision.

But I still say if we are going to consider military operations and defense of South Korea we have to think about the long term and understand the political end state will drive how military operations are conducted. I am sure our Korean military counterparts recommended a free and unified Korea be part of the vision (if not I am disappointed in them as much as I am disappointed with the lack of a free and unified Korea in the vision).

“If in taking a native den one thinks chiefly of the market that he will establish there on the morrow, one does not take it in the ordinary way.” Lyautey: The Colonial Role of the Army, Revue Des Deux Mondes, 15 February 1900

Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance

defense.gov

An official website of the United States Government

Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov

Immediate Release

Nov. 13, 2023 |×

Share

In 1953 the United States and Republic of Korea (ROK) signed the Mutual Defense Treaty pledging to promote peace, defend against external threats, and strengthen collective defense in the Pacific region. Seventy years later, the U.S.-ROK Alliance now stands as one of the world's premier alliances. Its presence is a staple for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the Indo-Pacific region and a stalwart protector of international norms. In recognition of the changing security environment, the Alliance must adopt a forward-looking posture that is responsive to its foundational and most pressing threat — the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) — while also contributing to the security of the region and the world.

The Alliance has successfully deterred conflict on the Korean Peninsula for 70 years. The United States continues to demonstrate its extended deterrence commitment starting with the 28,500 U.S. service personnel stationed in the ROK and appreciates ROK contributions to support the stable stationing of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). Together, the Alliance stands ready to "fight tonight" alongside the United Nations Command, which stands firm in its pledge to demonstrate international solidarity in defense of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The weight of this commitment safeguards the safety and security of the American and Korean people from adversarial attempts to undermine peace in the region.

Our Alliance is now broadening in scale and scope. Looking forward, the United States and the ROK will continue to withstand the strains of broader geopolitical dynamics, protect democratic values, and uphold the rules-based order. Together, the Alliance will proactively seek out an agenda for cooperation to shape discussions and activities in the region and around the globe in line with our common values and goals. We will also maintain a shared commitment to the security and growing prosperity of countries in the region as we pursue our primary objectives of maintaining a stable and peaceful Korean Peninsula and advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

In commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the U.S.-ROK Alliance, Secretary Austin and Minister Shin affirm this vision will address the Alliance's most pressing defense priorities and establish a shared security outlook ahead of its centennial in the decades to come. The Defense Vision seeks to build on the momentum of the 2023 Washington Declaration and Camp David Summit to outline a transformational way forward for the security and defense of the two countries.

First, Secretary Austin and Minister Shin reaffirm the importance of deterring strategic attacks and aggression from hostile actors in the region, including the DPRK, through continued extended deterrence efforts. To this end, the United States commits to uphold its ironclad extended deterrence commitment as set out by the Washington Declaration. This includes close consultations by way of bilateral deterrence dialogues such as the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) and the Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group (EDSCG). The Alliance intends to work to enable joint execution and planning for ROK conventional support to U.S. nuclear operations in a contingency to enhance the integrity of deterrence capabilities against the DPRK. The revised Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS) should inform the Alliance's mutual approach to deterrence and provide a stronger and more flexible strategic framework to deter the DPRK. The Alliance also intends to increase the scale and scope of combined exercises and training, including combined joint live-fire exercises, to demonstrate combined defense capabilities and readiness.

Second, the United States and the ROK are determined to modernize capabilities to strengthen the combined defense architecture of the Alliance. This includes supporting ROK efforts to increase its defense capabilities for the systematic and stable transition of operational control (OPCON), thus strengthening the Alliance combined defense. Through existing bilateral dialogues, our two nations resolve to optimize defense industrial cooperation and supply chain resiliency to not only achieve interoperability and interchangeability of defense systems, but also bolster economic security in the region. The Alliance intends to continue to upgrade missile response capabilities by reinforcing the ROK 3K Defense, which enhances our combined abilities to effectively deter and respond to DPRK missile threats, and utilize consultative mechanisms such as the Counter Missile Working Group (CMWG) to maintain close bilateral consultations on missile defense. In addition to maintaining close space and cyber cooperation, the United States and the ROK also seek to expand science and technology collaboration by leveraging the U.S. and ROK positions as high-end security partners to bring cutting-edge technologies to the warfighter.

Finally, the United States supports the ROK vision to increase its contributions to the Indo-Pacific as a Global Pivotal State. As such, the Alliance seeks to play a more active role in contributing to regional security, including by bolstering defense cooperation with Southeast Asia and Pacific Island Countries to cultivate a well-networked region, which is critical to protect the values of freedom, peace, and prosperity. The United States and the ROK intend to hold close consultations to reflect synergies in each nation's respective Indo-Pacific strategies and identify lines of effort through consultative bodies such as the Regional Cooperation Working Group (RCWG). Secretary Austin and Minister Shin also recognize the importance of increasing trilateral security cooperation with Japan as stated in the Camp David Principles, which will preserve stability and defend against threats in the region.

To more effectively advance these three strategic priorities, Secretary Austin and Minister Shin seek to restructure existing bilateral Alliance dialogue mechanisms to ensure that the Alliance is well-postured for the future.

Our vision is that of a peaceful Korean Peninsula and a free and open Indo-Pacific region in which the United States and the ROK stand together at the forefront of tackling the most significant and consequential security challenges. Allies are a critical part of promoting democracy, maintaining a rules-based order, and mitigating threats posed by adversaries. Working in concert with and through our allies and partners based on the U.S.-ROK Alliance has a compounding effect.

By identifying our priorities and aligning our respective defense strategies, the U.S.-ROK Alliance commits to capitalize on synergies and operate across the region with greater bilateral and multilateral political-military alignment to realize this vision of a true global comprehensive strategic Alliance and a lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Indo-Pacific South Korea Austin Defense Secretary Science technology innovation Engineering

Subscribe to Defense.gov Products

Choose which Defense.gov products you want delivered to your inbox.

Subscribe

The Department of Defense provides the military forces needed to deter war and ensure our nation's security.

defense.gov

2. 55th Security Consultative Meeting Joint Communique

A comprehensive communique from a year long effort of the alliance actions officers. We need to recognize the statements regarding the UN Command and build on them. The UN Command could play a pivotal supporting role in a future contingency or war.

One important omission. No mention of support from ROK and US psychological operations forces (or MISO) in support of national and alliance information efforts. By definition, deterrence efforts must be accompanied by a strong information and influence campaign. Military PSYOP or information forces have so much untapped capabilities that could be properly employed to support the four lines of information efforts.

We should be employing an offensive and defensive information campaign. (And I would add that a large scale overt information campaign would provide a lot of noise within with to conduct all the secret squirrel IO everyone is enamored with),

Offensive:

ØDesign an overt influence campaign targeting the Korean people based on Information, Knowledge, Truth, and Understanding

•Information – massive quantities of information from entertainment to news

•Knowledge – practical information on how to effect change, best practices for agriculture and market activity, educational lessons without Juche influence

•Truth – the truth about the regime and the situation in north Korea and the outside world

•Understanding – help the Korean people in the north to understand the inalienable and universal rights that belong to all human beings

Defensive (that is also offensive in its defense):

•Recognize KFR strategy

•Understand the strategy

•EXPOSE the strategy – inoculate the Korean and American people and international community against KFR strategy and influence

•Attack the strategy with information through a superior political warfare campaign

55th Security Consultative Meeting Joint Communique

defense.gov

1. The 55th United States (U.S.)-Republic of Korea (ROK) Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) was held in Seoul, ROK, on November 13, 2023. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and ROK Minister of National Defense Shin Won-sik led their respective delegations, which included senior defense and foreign affairs officials. On November 12, 2023, the U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Charles Q. Brown Jr., and ROK Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Kim Seung-Kyum, presided over the 48th ROK-U.S. Military Committee Meeting (MCM).

2. The Secretary and the Minister reaffirmed that the U.S.-ROK Alliance is the linchpin of peace, stability, and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and beyond based on our shared values including freedom, human rights, and the rule of law. Both sides assessed that these shared values have underpinned the Alliance for the past 70 years and contributed to its position as one of the most dynamic and premier alliances in the world. In particular, the two leaders reaffirmed the shared vision of "developing into a global comprehensive strategic Alliance" as stated in the historic April 2023 "Joint Statement in Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the Alliance between the United States of America and the Republic of Korea," which was adopted by the presidents of the two countries. They emphasized that the Alliance will jointly respond to threats and challenges by promoting wide-ranging cooperation, deepening regional engagement, and expanding our strong bilateral relations. They highlighted the various exercises and events planned and organized by the two defense ministries on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Alliance, including the Combined Joint Live-Fire Exercise, Combined Amphibious Operation, and Incheon Amphibious Landing Operations Commemoration Ceremony. Both sides assessed that these exercises demonstrate the progress in our combined defense posture and Alliance coordination on the Korean Peninsula.

In commemoration of the 55th SCM during the 70th Anniversary of the Alliance, the two leaders endorsed the "Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance" as a blueprint for the future in preparation for the Alliance's 100th anniversary. Through the announcement of the Defense Vision, the two sides presented three key pillars of Alliance cooperation for the next 30 years: enhancing extended deterrence efforts against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), modernizing Alliance capabilities by evolving into a science and technology alliance, and strengthening solidarity and regional security cooperation with like-minded partners.

The Secretary and the Minister assessed that the current U.S.-ROK Alliance is stronger than ever and reaffirmed the two nations' unwavering mutual commitment to a combined defense posture as stated in the U.S-ROK Mutual Defense Treaty to defend the ROK, and as reflected in the Washington Declaration. The two leaders also resolved to continue to strengthen the Alliances' deterrence and response posture against DPRK aggression and promote stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region.

The Secretary and the Minister noted that the SCM plays a pivotal role in the continued development of the U.S.-ROK Alliance as the main venue to discuss and affirm Alliance commitments and issues, as well as provide strategic guidance to the combined force. Both sides pledged to continue to develop the Alliance into a deeper and globally comprehensive strategic relationship based on the SCM.

3. The Secretary and the Minister reviewed the current security environment in and around the Korean Peninsula and discussed cooperative measures between the two nations. The Minister expressed grave concern that the DPRK has recently diversified its nuclear delivery systems and publicly reiterated its refusal to abandon nuclear weapons and to advance nuclear capabilities by adding its nuclear force policy to its constitution last September. The two sides condemned the DPRK's multiple missile launches, including ballistic missiles, its attempted launch of a DPRK-claimed "Space Launch Vehicle," and Russian-DPRK arms trade as clear violations of existing UN Security Council Resolutions. They noted that these actions present profound security challenges to the international community and pose an increasingly serious threat to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as around the world. Both leaders called on the international community to hold DPRK accountable for its actions. Secretary Austin reiterated the firm U.S. commitment to provide extended deterrence to the ROK, utilizing the full range of U.S. defense capabilities, including nuclear, conventional, missile defense, and advanced non-nuclear capabilities. He noted that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the United States or its Allies and partners is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime in line with the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review declaratory policy. They applauded the growing cooperation in our extended deterrence activities, including information sharing, enhancing our consultation mechanisms, joint planning and execution, as well as regularizing strategic asset deployments based on the Washington Declaration. The two sides also pledged to strengthen the combined defense architecture and accelerate expanding the ROK-side role in preparation against DPRK's nuclear and other WMD use and conventional threats.

The two leaders assessed bilateral mechanisms such as the U.S.-Korea Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD), the Extended Deterrence Strategy and Consultation Group (EDSCG), and the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) serve to strengthen the Alliance combined deterrence posture. They pledged to continue close consultation through these mechanisms to identify means to further strengthen extended deterrence. The two leaders also agreed to continue to assess ways to synchronize and align U.S.-ROK bilateral defense mechanisms and engagements in support of Alliance objectives more effectively and efficiently.

The Secretary and the Minister endorsed the 2023 Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS), which was revised for the first time in ten years. They recognized that the 2023 TDS revisions render it into a flexible and robust document that serves as a strategic framework to effectively deter and respond to advancing DPRK nuclear and other WMD and non-nuclear capabilities with strategic impacts. Also, both leaders noted that the 2023 TDS reflects guidance on ways to leverage the full range of U.S. military capabilities, including U.S. nuclear capabilities and ROK conventional capabilities, in preparation against DPRK nuclear and other WMD attacks across armistice, crisis, and wartime. The two leaders agreed that the 2023 TDS will further strengthen Alliance posture and capabilities in preparation for any possible DPRK nuclear employment scenarios, as a document to inform our respective planners. The Secretary and the Minister applauded the successful DSC Table-top-exercise (TTX) held last February in Washington, D.C., which focused on a DPRK nuclear use scenario for the first time and pledged to hold simulations and TTXs regularly involving U.S. and ROK policy, government, and military personnel to continue the joint planning and coordination process. The two leaders assessed the work of the newly inaugurated NCG following the Washington Declaration and agreed that the NCG will serve a key role in developing combined defense posture as a bilateral consultative body to strengthen extended deterrence, discuss nuclear and strategic planning, and manage DPRK threats to the Alliance and to the nonproliferation regime posed by the DPRK. In particular, the Secretary and Minister recognized that the ROK and United States have been formulating the Alliance's effective response measures in preparation of the DPRK's nuclear use through the NCG of which work streams include joint execution and planning for ROK conventional support to U.S. nuclear operations in a contingency. In addition, both leaders noted they look forward to continued close coordination in the NCG and receiving regular updates on NCG progress activities at future SCMs.

4. The Secretary and the Minister agreed to pursue expanded cooperation of the U.S. Shared Early Warning System (SEWS) to enhance the Alliance's detection capabilities against advanced DPRK missile threats. They also commended the work of the Counter-Missile Working Group (CMWG) and agreed to initiate a "Joint Study" to further develop the Alliance's comprehensive counter-missile strategy. Further, they assessed the work of the Program Analysis Working Group for the U.S.-ROK Missile Defense (PAWG), which addresses evolving DPRK missile threats, and pledged to continue relevant cooperation.

5. To achieve the complete denuclearization of the DPRK, the two sides pledged to continue coordinating on efforts to deter DPRK's nuclear threat with the Alliance's overwhelming strength, while continuing to pursue efforts through sanctions and pressure to dissuade DPRK's nuclear development, and pursue dialogue and diplomacy. In this regard, Secretary Austin expressed support for the ROK's Audacious Initiative as well as the vision for a unified Korean Peninsula. The two sides pledged to continue coordinating on efforts to encourage the DPRK regime to move toward denuclearization.

Both leaders stressed the importance of the international community's role in driving the complete denuclearization of the DPRK and emphasized full implementation of United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs) by the entire international community, including the People's Republic of China (PRC) and Russia, both permanent members of the UNSC. The two sides emphasized the need for the international community to actively impede and counter the DPRK's reckless activities so that DPRK will choose to abandon its unlawful nuclear and ballistic missile development. To this end, the two leaders agreed to work closely with each other and the international community to combat the DPRK's malicious cyber activities, cryptocurrency theft, overseas laborer dispatches, and ship-to-ship transfers. The Secretary and the Minister concurred that the Armistice Agreement remains in effect as an international norm guaranteeing the stable security order on the Korean Peninsula, and that all parties of the Korean War should abide by it while it remains in force. Minister Shin further conveyed the ROK's position that the Northern Limit Line (NLL) has been an effective means of separating ROK and DPRK military forces and preventing military tension. The two leaders reaffirmed that they would continue to closely cooperate in pursuit of these objectives, recognized diplomatic efforts as the most preferred path to secure peace on the Korean Peninsula, and concurred that such diplomatic efforts must be backed by a robust and credible combined defense posture by the two countries' defense authorities.

6. The Secretary and the Minister also reflected on the critical role that U.S. forces in the ROK have played for more than 70 years and reaffirmed that U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) continues to play a decisive role in preventing armed conflict on the Korean Peninsula, and in promoting peace and stability in Northeast Asia.

Secretary Austin also noted that the Indo-Pacific region is the Department of Defense's priority theater and reiterated the U.S. commitment to maintain current USFK force levels to defend the ROK. He highlighted the increased frequency and routinization of U.S. strategic asset deployments this year, including a U.S. SSBN's visit to the ROK for the first time in more than 40 years, and two iterations of Carrier Strike Group deployments. The Secretary also reaffirmed that these strategic asset deployments are consistent with President Biden's commitment to enhance rotational deployments of U.S. strategic assets in and around the Korean Peninsula, as tangible evidence of the U.S. commitment to defend the ROK. In addition, the two leaders reaffirmed the two defense authorities will work closely together to implement the commitment from the Washington Declaration that the United States will further enhance the regular visibility of strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula as well as expand and deepen coordination between their militaries.

Secretary Austin and Minister Shin reaffirmed the role of the United Nations Command (UNC) in implementing, managing, and enforcing the 1953 Armistice Agreement, deterring DPRK aggression, and coordinating multinational contributions to security on the Korean Peninsula. Both leaders shared a common understanding that UNC remains a model for international solidarity to enable peace, security, and stability on the Korean Peninsula. They reaffirmed that the UNC has successfully contributed those aims for over 70 years and will continue to carry out its mission and tasks with the utmost respect for ROK sovereignty. Both sides applauded the first "ROK-UNC Member States Defense Ministerial Meeting" to be held in Seoul this year on the 70th anniversary year of the Armistice Agreement. The Secretary and the Minister also expressed their expectation that this meeting will serve as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and solidarity between the ROK, as the host nation of the UNC, and UNC Member States moving forward. In this regard, the two leaders agreed to explore ways to expand combined exercises and enhance interoperability between the ROK and UNC Member States to increase UNC's contributions to security on the Korean Peninsula, while seeking ways to support UNC in implementing the Armistice Agreement. To these ends, the two leaders agreed to seek to broaden UNC membership through the participation of like-minded countries that share the same values with the ROK and the United States, anchored in the principles and mandates of the UN Charter.

7. The Secretary and the Minister received and endorsed the MCM Report to the SCM presented by the U.S.-ROK Combined Forces Command (CFC) Commander, General Paul J. LaCamera. Based on the report, they committed to enhance combined defense capabilities against DPRK threats, strengthen nuclear and WMD deterrence and response posture, conduct the systematic and stable transition of operational control (OPCON), develop relevant operation plans (OPLANs), and expand U.S.-ROK-Japan security cooperation. The two leaders also assessed that there was significant progress in effectively responding to a variety of security challenges following changes to the strategic environment.

8. The Secretary and Minister assessed that the Freedom Shield 23 (FS 23) and Ulchi Freedom Shield 23 (UFS 23) exercises contributed to bolstering combined readiness. In particular, the Alliance conducted UFS 23 under a realistic operational environment that reflected the DPRK's advancing nuclear and missile threats as well as the possibility of a rapid transition to wartime conditions, significantly enhanced the Alliance's crisis management and all-out war execution capabilities. The two sides also assessed that the combined field exercises performed in conjunction with FS and UFS exercises enhanced combined operation execution capabilities. Further, considering DPRK's advancing nuclear and missile capabilities and institutionalization of its nuclear force policy, they pledged to further discuss the inclusion of a DPRK nuclear use during a future U.S.-ROK combined exercise. Both leaders pledged to work closely to expand the scale and types of field exercises in line with combined exercises in 2024, noting that training for defensive and deterrent purposes is a critical component of maintaining Alliance readiness. The two sides assessed that the U.S.-ROK Alliance must continue to focus on combat readiness and on the combined defense posture to address dynamic changes on the Korean Peninsula.

9. The Secretary and the Minister emphasized that ensuring stable training opportunities for USFK is critical to maintaining a strong combined defense posture. Secretary Austin noted the efforts of ROK MND to improve the training conditions for U.S. and South Korean troops and concurred on the importance of maintaining ongoing communication and close cooperation between USFK and MND to coordinate the joint use of ROK facilities and airspace for U.S. and ROK training.

10. After reviewing the progress on directed tasks from the Conditions-based Wartime OPCON Transition Plan (COTP), the two leaders discussed the way forward for wartime OPCON transition to the Future Combined Forces Command (F-CFC). The Secretary and the Minister also reaffirmed that the conditions stated in the bilaterally approved COTP must be met before the wartime OPCON is transitioned in a stable and systematic manner.

The two leaders applauded the progress made in completing the annual U.S.-ROK bilateral evaluation on the capabilities and systems for conditions #1 and #2 based on the assessment criteria and standards bilaterally agreed through the joint study and confirmed the progress had been made in many areas. Regarding condition #3, the Secretary and the Minister concurred that meaningful progress had been made in conducting the first assessment of the regional security environment, based on the bilaterally agreed assessment methods and criteria. The two leaders agreed to further advance the assessment process of the regional security environment through close coordination.

They also confirmed that notable progress had been made on conducting the Full Mission Capability (FMC) assessment of the Combined Ground Component Command (CGCC) and the Full Operational Capability (FOC) assessment of the Combined Special Operations Component Command (CSOCC) during Freedom Shield (FS) and Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercises in 2023. The two leaders pledged to redouble collective efforts to pursue CGCC, CSOCC and Combined Military Intelligence Support Operations Component Command (CMISOCC)'s transition to standing component commands under close consultation.

The Secretary and the Minister reaffirmed that F-CFC FOC certification would be pursued when the results of the bilateral evaluation on the capabilities and systems of conditions #1 and #2 meet the bilaterally agreed-upon levels. In addition, they concurred on the need to closely cooperate to advance the comprehensive and interoperable capabilities of the Alliance. Both sides pledged to engage in regular evaluation and review of the progress in wartime OPCON transition implementation through annual MCM's and SCM's to strengthen the Alliance and combined defense capabilities via the Alliance's collective efforts to meet the conditions.

11. The Secretary and the Minister decided to continue strengthening cooperation in space and cyber, to ensure an effective combined response against growing threats and to bolster comprehensive Alliance response capabilities. The Secretary and the Minister acknowledged the efforts of the respective defense authorities working to promote the security of critical infrastructure, including information and space systems. The two leaders applauded the work of the Space Cooperation Working Group and pledged to further strengthen the Alliance's space cooperation including expanding space situational awareness information sharing. The two sides also acknowledged that the Space Cooperation TTX, held this September for first time in six years, contributed to deepening discussions on the direction of bilateral space cooperation while enhancing common understanding of deterrence and threats in the space domain. As the leaders of the two countries committed to expand the Alliance's cooperation into cyberspace with the signing of the Cybersecurity Cooperation Framework in April this year, the Secretary and the Minister pledged to expand defense cyber cooperation to strengthen the joint response posture against cybersecurity threats. They highlighted the work of the May 2023 Cyber Cooperation Working Group and committed to further deepen coordination in the defense cyber domain including the establishment of the first bilateral cyber exercise and participation of the ROK in the annual U.S.-led Cyber Flag exercise.

12. The Minister and the Secretary concurred on the need to strengthen the national defense capabilities of the Alliance, and to establish more efficient and effective collaboration in the development, acquisition, and employment of these capabilities. While recognizing the increasingly significant linkages between advanced technology and national security, the two sides agreed to strengthen the Alliance's interoperability and interchangeability and continue to strengthen readiness through expanding cooperation in the areas of defense research and development, industrial cooperation, and capability acquisition. The two leaders noted the previous efforts to strengthen the connection between the two countries' defense industrial bases, including the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), which will soon be concluded, and called for efforts to conclude a U.S.-ROK Reciprocal Defense Procurement Agreement to strengthen cooperation in the defense industry. They also concurred on the need to expand additional cooperation on weapon systems including ships to enhance security capacity in the Indo-Pacific region. The two leaders reaffirmed that U.S.-ROK defense science and technology cooperation has expanded in various domains such as space, quantum, cyber defense, artificial intelligence, autonomy, and directed energy. They also pledged to continue the dialogue between the MND and the DoD to use future-generation wireless communication technologies for combined operations. The Secretary and the Minister pledged to continue exchange activities between U.S-ROK consultative bodies that address defense research and development, as well as industrial cooperation, capability acquisition, lifecycle logistics, and technology security. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to evaluate and evolve bilateral consultative bodies to strengthen efficacy and timeliness of cooperation in the aforementioned areas. In particular, they noted the beginning of discussions on the establishment of a senior-level consultative body to enhance policy and strategic cooperation in science and technology between the DoD and MND and pledged to continue to work together to advance the common interests of the two countries.

13. The Secretary and the Minister shared a common understanding that U.S.-ROK security cooperation plays a critical role in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific that is connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient. To this end, the Secretary and the Minister pledged to continue promoting security cooperation to better respond to the increasingly complex regional and global security situation. In this context, the two leaders committed to share the two countries' policy direction and cooperation status and seek specific cooperation in implementing the ROK's Strategy for a Free, Peaceful, and Prosperous Indo-Pacific Region and the U.S. Indo-Pacific Strategy.

The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, lawful unimpeded commerce, and respect for international law including freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful use of the seas, including the South China Sea and beyond. The Secretary and the Minister also acknowledged the importance of preserving peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait as reflected in the April 2023 "Joint Statement in Commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of the Alliance between the United States of America and the Republic of Korea." They pledged to continue promoting regional defense and security cooperation. They also reaffirmed support for Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) centrality and the ASEAN-led regional architecture. In particular, the two leaders noted the importance of creating cooperative synergies as part of implementing both the ROK and U.S. respective strategies for the Indo-Pacific. They agreed to leverage the newly established Korea – United States Regional Cooperation Working Group (RCWG) to strengthen defense cooperation with ASEAN members and work together with the Pacific Island Countries to contribute to maritime security.

The two leaders concurred on the need to promote democracy, safeguard human rights, and the rule of law. They assessed that various efforts, including counter-piracy operations, stabilization and reconstruction efforts, peacekeeping operations, regional security cooperation initiatives, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity to the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

14. The Secretary and the Minister concurred that the Camp David Summit marked a new chapter in U.S.-ROK-Japan security cooperation and reviewed the progress of the defense-related deliverables agreed upon by the three leaders. The two sides applauded the finalization of the trilateral arrangement to share DPRK missile warning data in real time. They also reviewed the status of institutionalizing a multi-year trilateral military exercise plan and pledged to conduct trilateral exercises in a systematic manner from next year based on the exercise plan after finalizing the exercise plan by the end of 2023. The Secretary and the Minister also reaffirmed their commitment to continuing to promote and expand trilateral security cooperation including senior-level policy consultations, trilateral exercises, information sharing, and defense exchange cooperation.

15. Amidst the DPRK's continued development of nuclear and missile programs, the Secretary and the Minister recognized the need for sanctions enforcement in the region and welcomed continued multinational contributions to counter-proliferation activities in the region. The Secretary expressed appreciation for the ROK's contribution to global security efforts, including hosting the Proliferation Security Initiative's 20th Anniversary High-level Political Meeting and Multinational Maritime Interdiction Exercises. Both leaders concurred on the importance of upholding and fully implementing all relevant UNSCRs. The Secretary and the Minister applauded the work done over the last year in the U.S.-ROK Counter WMD Committee (CWMDC) to enhance the Alliance's combined response capabilities by expanding information sharing to practically respond to DPRK's WMD threats and pursuing cooperation in the area of consequence management. They reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation to address existing DPRK sanctions evasion tactics and illicit cyber activities, and committed to seek additional opportunities for responding to WMD threats from the DPRK. Additionally, the two leaders resolved to continue strengthening cooperation to enhance CWMD capabilities through measures including CWMDC and U.S. DOD Cooperative Threat Reduction (CTR) programs, which have enhanced Alliance CWMD capabilities

16. The Secretary and the Minister reaffirmed that expediting the relocation and return of U.S. military bases in the ROK is in the interests of both countries to ensure the balanced development of the ROK and the conditions for the stationing of U.S. forces in the ROK, and agreed to work closely on relevant matters to ensure the timely return of the bases in accordance with the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) and related agreements. The two leaders reaffirmed their joint commitment to expedite the return of Yongsan Garrison for the complete construction of Yongsan National Park, and to discuss the return of other U.S. military bases through regular consultations through SOFA channels to reach mutually acceptable outcomes in the future.

17. Secretary Austin expressed his gratitude that the ROK is contributing toward ensuring a stable environment for U.S. Forces Korea. The Secretary and Minister also assessed that the Special Measures Agreement (SMA) has greatly contributed to the strengthening of the U.S.-ROK combined defense posture.

18. Secretary Austin and Minister Shin expressed appreciation for the courtesy, hospitality, and work by both sides that contributed to the success of this year's SCM. Both leaders affirmed that the discussions during the 55th SCM and the 48th MCM contributed to substantively strengthening the U.S.-ROK Alliance and further developing the bilateral defense relationship. Both sides expect to hold the 56th SCM and 49th MCM in Washington, D.C., at a mutually convenient time in 2024.

defense.gov

3. Secretary of Defense Joint Press Conference With Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense

It has already taken place. There is not yet a DOD transcript. But for those who were not up at midnight to watch it will be rebroadcast at 0930 today.

ADVISORY

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Secretary of Defense Joint Press Conference With Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense

Nov. 12, 2023 |   

https://www.defense.gov/News/Advisories/Advisory/Article/3586493/secretary-of-defense-joint-press-conference-with-republic-of-korea-rok-minister/

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III will conduct a joint press conference with Republic of Korea (ROK) Minister of National Defense Shin Wonsik following the U.S.-ROK Security Consultative Meeting, Seoul, South Korea — Monday, 13 November at 12:00 a.m. EST livestreamed on Defense.gov.

The event will be rebroadcast at 9:30 a.m. on channel 2 in the Pentagon. 

4. S. Korea, U.S. revise 'tailored deterrence strategy' on N. Korea

There should be a lot of Korean reporting on the SCM today.

(3rd LD) S. Korea, U.S. revise 'tailored deterrence strategy' on N. Korea | Yonhap News Agency

en.yna.co.kr · by Kim Eun-jung · November 13, 2023

(ATTN: UPDATES with latest details in paras 4-11; ADDS photo)

By Kim Eun-jung and Chae Yun-hwan

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- The defense chiefs of South Korea and the United States updated their joint deterrence strategies on North Korea during their annual security talks Monday as part of efforts to better counter Pyongyang's growing missile and nuclear threats.

The 2023 Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS), revised for the first time in 10 years, underscores the U.S. "extended deterrence" commitment to defend South Korea by using all of its nuclear and other military capabilities in the face of a nuclear-armed North Korea.

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin adopted the document during the 55th session of the annual Security Consultative Meeting in Seoul.

The allies have been working to update the key military document to better reflect the North's advancing nuclear and missile threats, given that Pyongyang has conducted six nuclear tests and enshrined in law the right to use preemptive nuclear strikes to protect itself.

"The 2023 TDS revisions render it into a flexible and robust document that serves as a strategic framework to effectively deter and respond to advancing DPRK nuclear and other WMD and non-nuclear capabilities with strategic impacts," the communique said.

DPRK stands for the North's official name, Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

"Both leaders noted that the 2023 TDS reflects guidance on ways to leverage the full range of U.S. military capabilities, including U.S. nuclear capabilities and ROK conventional capabilities, in preparation against DPRK nuclear and other WMD attacks across armistice, crisis, and wartime," it said.

ROK stands for South Korea's official title.

The two sides condemned the North's provocations, such as ballistic missile launches and its purported plan to launch a space rocket vehicle, as well as the North's arms trade with Russia, as clear violations of the U.N. Security Council resolutions.

"Secretary Austin reiterated the firm U.S. commitment to provide extended deterrence to the ROK, utilizing the full range of U.S. defense capabilities, including nuclear, conventional, missile defense, and advanced non-nuclear capabilities," the communique said.

"He noted that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the United States or its Allies and partners is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim regime in line with the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review declaratory policy," it said of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

Defense Minister Shin Won-sik (L) and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin sign the revised document of the "tailored deterrence strategy" on North Korea during a ceremony held on the sidelines of the 55th Security Consultative Meeting held at the defense ministry in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2023, in this photo provided by the ministry. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

The two sides also pledged to regularly hold simulations and table-top exercises among policy, government and military personnel to better prepare for contingencies on the Korean Peninsula.

To reinforce missile defense cooperation, the U.S. agreed to share data from the military's reconnaissance satellites with South Korea in real time.

"The secretary and the minister agreed to pursue expanded cooperation of the U.S. Shared Early Warning System (SEWS) to enhance the alliance's detection capabilities against advanced DPRK missile threats," it said.

They also pledged to expand the trilateral security cooperation with Japan by activating a real-time data sharing mechanism for North Korea's missile launches next month and conduct joint drills in a systematic manner from next year.

In commemorating the 70th anniversary of the bilateral alliance, the two nations adopted a document titled "Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance" to expand the scale and scope of their defense and security ties.

Defense Minister Shin Won-sik (R) and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin shakes hands ahead of the 55th Security Consultative Meeting held at the defense ministry's headquarters in Seoul on Nov. 13, 2023, in this photo provided by the ministry. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

During his Seoul visit as part of his three-nation trip to the Indo-Pacific, Austin reaffirmed the U.S. "extended deterrence" commitment to use the full range of its military capabilities, including nuclear, to defend South Korea.

Shin said U.S.' increased deployments of strategic assets to South Korea this year, including a nuclear-capable submarine's first port call here in over 40 years and a B-52 strategic bomber's first landing, enhanced the credibility of Washington's extended deterrence commitment.

Austin's visit comes at a time when Pyongyang is believed to be trying to make yet another attempt to launch a military satellite with Russian assistance following the rare summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in September.

On Tuesday, Austin will attend the inaugural defense ministerial meeting of South Korea and the United Nations Command (UNC) member states, which contributed forces to fight for South Korea during the 1950-53 Korean War, before departing for his final stop in Indonesia.

ejkim@yna.co.kr

(END)

en.yna.co.kr · by Kim Eun-jung · November 13, 2023

5. N. Korea slams S. Korea-UNC defense chief meeting as attempt for 'new war of aggression'

One of the most interesting and important results of this year's meetings in Seoul was the focus on the UN Command. This is actually an important part of an information campaign because the UN Command is viewed with such disdain (and fear) in the north and the regime has for seven decades tried to have it disbanded and removed from the peninsula. The UN command is both a threat to the regime due to the international commitment while its ouster is important to the regime because it believes that it would cause the withdrawal of US forces (which is incorrect - US forces are present due to the 1953 Mutual Defense Treaty and not the UN Command)

(LEAD) N. Korea slams S. Korea-UNC defense chief meeting as attempt for 'new war of aggression' | Yonhap News Agency

en.yna.co.kr · by Kim Soo-yeon · November 13, 2023

(ATTN: UPDATES with more details in last 4 paras)

By Kim Soo-yeon

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- North Korea on Monday renewed its calls for dissolving the U.S.-led United Nations Command (UNC), claiming that a plan by South Korea and UNC member states to hold the inaugural defense ministerial meeting this week is a "dangerous" scheme to spark a "new war of aggression" against the North.

South Korea and 17 member states of the UNC will hold their first meeting of defense chiefs and representatives Tuesday in Seoul to explore the role of the UNC in deterring war on the Korean Peninsula and maintaining peace. The UNC oversees the enforcement of the armistice that halted the 1950-53 Korean War.

Calling the UNC a U.S.-led multinational war tool," North Korea's institute for disarmament and peace at the foreign ministry said in a statement that the security situation on the Korean Peninsula has been turned into a "war-oriented structure" by the U.S. and its followers.

This computerized image depicts an official at North Korea's foreign ministry. (Yonhap)

"The UNC, which should have been dissolved decades ago, is now revealing its aggressive nature again, seeking to cook up a declaration of confrontation simulating the second Korean war," according to a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

The North said the upcoming South Korea-UNC meeting is a "dangerous scheme to ignite a new war of aggression" against Pyongyang at a time when heightened tensions have been aggravated by Washington's deployment of its nuclear strategic assets and large-scale joint military drills between the South and the U.S.

"The illegal and aggressive 'UN Command' should be dissolved without delay, and this is an essential prerequisite for restoring the authority and impartiality of the UN and promoting peace and stability of the Korean peninsula," the KCNA said.

At Tuesday's meeting, the participants plan to urge North Korea to cease "unlawful activities" and abide by the U.N. Security Council resolutions, and adopt a joint declaration calling for collective responses in case of contingencies on the peninsula, according to Seoul's defense ministry.

The UNC was established on July 24, 1950, under a U.N. mandate to "restore peace" during the Korean War. Marking the 70th anniversary of the signing of the armistice, South Korea is seeking to become a member state of the UNC.

South Korea's unification ministry condemned North Korea's latest claim as a repetition of its "far-fetched" demand for the dissolution of the UNC.

"The UNC has been a model of international solidarity as it has played an essential role in keeping the freedom and peace of the Republic of Korea for the past 70 years," Koo Byoung-sam, the ministry's spokesperson, told a press briefing.

In response to North Korea's insistence that the Korean War broke out due to a northern invasion by the U.S., Koo criticized it as the North's claim based on falsehoods and lies.

This file photo, taken Aug. 30, 2023, shows augmentation troops from member states of the United Nations Command posing for a photo at Camp Humphreys, a U.S. military garrison in Pyeongtaek, 60 kilometers south of Seoul. (Pool photo) (Yonhap)

sooyeon@yna.co.kr

(END)

en.yna.co.kr · by Kim Soo-yeon · November 13, 2023

6. S. Korea, US revise deterrence strategy amid growing NK threats

Yes, Iit is important to reaffirm our commitment to the defense of the ROK but we shouldn't have to everyday and in every meeting. Our 28.500 troops are a demonstration of US strategic reassurance and strategic resolve. This commitment of US blood in addition to treasure can only be compared to the US troop presence in Japan and NATO while in Ukraine and Israel we commit our treasure and moral support. But our ROK counterparts need to be reassured especially as they observe US commitments around the world. Of course ROK military leaders know that we are committed but the press, politicians, and public need constant reassurance.

S. Korea, US revise deterrence strategy amid growing NK threats

koreaherald.com · by Ji Da-gyum · November 13, 2023

Despite two ongoing wars, Austin reaffirms US commitment to augment deployment of strategic assets in S. Korea

By Ji Da-gyum

Published : Nov. 13, 2023 - 18:11

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik (left) and US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin pose for a photo after signing the revised document of the Tailored Deterrence Strategy during the 55th Security Consultative Meeting at the Ministry of National Defense in Seoul on Monday. The two ministers attended the ceremony both donning burgundy-colored ties to signify the countries' "blood-forged alliance," according to the Defense Ministry. (Defense Ministry)

The defense chiefs of South Korea and the United States on Monday unveiled an updated security strategy, the first in a decade, specifically designed to counter the growing threats emanating from North Korean nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction.

South Korea's newly appointed Defense Minister Shin Won-sik and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the completion of revisions to the Tailored Deterrence Strategy, a strategic guideline tailored to threats posed by North Korea.

In December 2021, South Korean and US defense leaders first acknowledged the imperative to amend the TDS, initially crafted in 2013. This recognition stemmed from the rapidly evolving nature of North Korea's missile and nuclear capabilities. The outcome of revising the strategic guidelines came two years after the initial agreement.

"(The defense chiefs) recognized that the 2023 TDS revisions render it into a flexible and robust document that serves as a strategic framework to effectively deter and respond to advancing DPRK nuclear and other WMD and non-nuclear capabilities with strategic impacts," read the joint statement of the annual Security Consultative Meeting, a key bilateral defense dialogue, held in Seoul.

"Also, both (defense) leaders noted that the 2023 TDS reflects guidance on ways to leverage the full range of US military capabilities, including US nuclear capabilities and ROK conventional capabilities, in preparation against DPRK nuclear and other WMD attacks across armistice, crisis, and wartime."

The acronyms ROK and DPRK represent the official names of South Korea and North Korea, which are the Republic of Korea and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, respectively.

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik (left) and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin sign the revised Tailored Deterrence Strategy during the 55th Security Consultative Meeting at the Ministry of National Defense in Seoul on Monday. (Defense Ministry)

The South Korean Defense Ministry clarified that the 2023 TDS will be pivotal in creating a strong joint defense stance against North Korea's potential deployment of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. This strategic plan will be instrumental as the allies incorporate it into their training exercises.

The defense chiefs also adopted the "Defense Vision of the US-ROK Alliance" on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the alliance that was forged by signing the mutual defense treaty in 1953.

The document reflects the collective vision of the allies in the defense domain, elucidating priorities and development directions for defense cooperation over the next 30 years --strategically aligning with the changing security landscape and aimed at reaching milestones during the 100th anniversary of the alliance, the Defense Ministry said in a separate statement explaining the outcome of the SCM.

"In recognition of the changing security environment, the Alliance must adopt a forward-looking posture that is responsive to its foundational and most pressing threat -- the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) -- while also contributing to the security of the region and the world," the Defense Vision read.

To that end, the document also "reaffirmed the importance of deterring strategic attacks and aggression from hostile actors in the region, including the DPRK, through continued extended deterrence efforts." The allies also expressed their determination to "modernize capabilities to strengthen the combined defense architecture of the Alliance."

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik (right) and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin speak at a news conference following the 55th Security Consultative Meeting at the Ministry of National Defense in Seoul on Monday. (Defense Ministry)

During the SCM, the South Korean and US defense chiefs also engaged in discussions on pending matters, including the September 19 inter-Korean military agreement.

Minister Shin views the suspension of this agreement as necessary, stating that it has impeded South Korea's capacity to monitor and conduct reconnaissance over North Korea, leaving the military vulnerable to surprise attacks from North Korea.

However, when questioned about whether the inter-Korean military agreement affected the South Korea-US combined defense posture and if the allies should reassess its effectiveness, Austin chose not to disclose the US position.

"We have an opportunity to exchange views on this and we agreed to stay in close consultation going forward," Austin told reporters at a news conference held at the building of the Defense Ministry following the SCM.

But Austin was confident when asked by The Korea Herald if it is realistic to maintain the current frequency of deployment of US strategic assets, especially amid the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.

"The answer is yes. The United States has the most powerful military in the world. Having said that, I'll also say that everywhere we are and everything that we do, we work with allies and partners. That magnifies our strengths," Austin said. "We will continue to stand with our allies and partners in the face of aggression."

The US defense secretary emphasized the fulfillment of the commitment to augment the deployment of strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula, as outlined in the April 26 Washington Declaration. He pointed to significant events such as the entry of the US Navy's nuclear-capable ballistic missile submarine into a South Korean port -- marking the first occurrence since the early 1980s -- and the first-ever landing of the B-52 strategic bomber on a South Korean air base.

"There will be another carrier battle group that comes soon," he said without providing further details on the upcoming entry of the US Navy's aircraft carrier. The US has deployed two aircraft carriers to the eastern Mediterranean following Hamas' attack on Israel on Oct.7.

"So we're going to continue to make sure that this region has what it needs to do, what we and our partners and allies want to do, and that is to maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region," Austin said.

koreaherald.com · by Ji Da-gyum · November 13, 2023

7. S. Korea, US to step up data sharing on NK missiles

We must get to trilateral integrated missile defense.

S. Korea, US to step up data sharing on NK missiles

The Korea Times · by 2023-11-13 16:25 | Defense · November 13, 2023

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik, right, greets U.S. delegates of the annual ROK-U.S. Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) during a ceremony at the Ministry of National Defense in Seoul, Monday, prior to the ministerial meeting. Behind Shin is U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. Joint Press Corps

Seoul, Washington to mainain 'close consultation' in suspension of inter-Korean military agreement

By Lee Hyo-jin

The defense chiefs of South Korea and the United States agreed, Monday, to share the U.S.'s early warning system (SEWS) data on North Korean missiles, enabling Seoul to strengthen its defense posture against Pyongyang’s increasing nuclear threats.

The agreement was reached during the annual ROK-U.S. Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) betweeen South Korea’s Defense Minister Shin Won-sik and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, held in Seoul.

The expansion of military partnerships to SEWS comes as recent developments in North Korea's missile capabilities, such as the ability to launch missiles traveling in irregular trajectories and capable of pull-up maneuvers or rapid-climb flights, have prompted concerns that the projectiles could evade South Korea's existing radar detection systems that are based on land and sea.

The U.S. military currently operates about 10 early warning satellites, including the Defense Support Program (DSP) and Space Based InfraRed System (SBIRS).

The real-time sharing of information gathered by American early warning satellites is expected to significantly enhance South Korea's missile detection and response capabilities, according to Seoul's defense ministry.

"Currently, the South Korean military does not have real-time access to the information observed by the early warning satellites operated by the U.S. The goal (of this agreement) is to establish real-time sharing of this information, allowing it to be transmitted to our surveillance and missile defense systems," a senior defense official told reporters, adding that working-level discussions are underway.

Monday's meeting also touched on a possible suspension of the Sep. 19 inter-Korean military agreement, or the Comprehensive Military Agreement (CMA), signed in 2018 under the previous Moon Jae-in government.

Since taking office in September, Shin has been pushing to suspend the military accord, citing its impact on limiting South Korea's surveillance capabilities against the North's military threats.

"Regarding the CMA, we had an opportunity to exchange views and we agreed to stay in close consultation going forward," Austin said during a press conference held shortly after the meeting.

Seoul, Pyongyang clash over UN Command

South Korea's defense ministry said it has delivered Seoul's position about the military accord to the U.S. side, although it was not an official agenda of the ministerial meeting.

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik, left, shakes hands with his U.S. counterpart Lloyd Austin during a signing ceremony of the revised Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS) at the Ministry of National Defense in Seoul, Monday. Courtesy of Ministry of National Defense

During the discussions, Austin reiterated the U.S. commitment to provide extended deterrence to South Korea utilizing the full range of America's defense capabilities, including nuclear, conventional, missile defense, and advanced non-nuclear capabilities.

"He noted that any nuclear attack by the DPRK against the United States or its Allies and partners is unacceptable and will result in the end of the Kim (Jong-un) regime in line with the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review declaratory policy," read a joint statement released shortly after the meeting. DPRK is an acronym for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the official name of North Korea.

Prior to the meeting, Shin and Austin signed an updated version of the Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS), a document designed to counter North Korea’s nuclear and other weapons of mass destruction. It was the first time the two sides agreed to make revisions to the document since it was adopted in 2013 following the North's third nuclear test.

Although details of the document have remained confidential due to security reasons, Shin said the revised TDS effectively reflects the advancement of North Korea's nuclear capabilities over the past decade.

"Whereas the previous version of the TDS was rather conceptual, the updated document includes concrete guidelines and has reached the level of joint planning for combined exercises conducted by the two nations," Shin said during the press conference, when asked about the new aspects of the updated TDS.

In addition to the joint statement, Shin and Austin announced the Future Defense Vision of the ROK-U.S. Alliance as an outcome of their annual meeting, which is a blueprint laying out future defense cooperation areas of the two nations.

It was the first time since 2019 that the two nations to announced such a document.

However, unlike the previous Future Defense Vision, which primarily focused on achieving peace through denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula, this year's paper cited North Korea as the allies' "foundational and most pressing threat" and reaffirmed the importance of deterring strategic attacks and aggression from hostile regimes in the region, including North Korea.

Meanwhile, the meeting between Shin and Austin was held just a day before an inaugural meeting of the defense chiefs of South Korea and 17 member states of the United Nations Command, also taking place in Seoul. The gathering of defense ministers of the multinational command comes as Seoul seeks to bolster the UNC’s role in maintaining peace on the Korean Peninsula.

The Korea Times · by 2023-11-13 16:25 | Defense · November 13, 2023

8. Defense chief hails UNC troops' sacrifice ahead of ministerial meeting with UNC member states

Our ROK counterparts are really demonstrating that they are embracing the UN Command. From President Yoon's acknowledgement of the importance of the seven UN bases in Japan to the defense of the ROK in his August 15th Liberation Day speech to these respectful statements for the sacrifices of the UN forces they are sending a powerful message. The UN Command is not going away, to the disappointment of Kim Jong Un (just another one of the regime's failed strategies).

Maybe the UN Command will focus on military support to unification even if the bilateral ROK/US command will not acknowledge it.

Defense chief hails UNC troops' sacrifice ahead of ministerial meeting with UNC member states | Yonhap News Agency

en.yna.co.kr · by Chae Yun-hwan · November 13, 2023

By Chae Yun-hwan

SEOUL, Nov. 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's defense chief on Monday hailed the sacrifice made by U.N. Command (UNC) troops during the 1950-53 Korean War ahead of the inaugural defense ministerial meeting with the member states of the multinational command tasked with overseeing the conflict's armistice.

Defense Minister Shin Won-sik made the remark at a reception for representatives of the member states in southern Seoul, as South Korea seeks to deepen ties with the command's 17 member states through the ministerial meeting on Tuesday.

"The Republic of Korea was able to overcome the wounds of the war and rise again due to the noble sacrifice and devotion of (UNC) troops and the support from the participating countries," Shin said. "The discussions in the meeting will serve as the precious foundation for the peace and stability of the member states beyond the Korean Peninsula."

U.S. Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, who attended the event, called the gathering an "important show of strength" from the international community.

"I look forward to our discussions tomorrow where we can chart our path forward for continuing cooperation among our countries," Austin said. "Your participation today is an important show of strength from the international community."

Defense Minister Shin Won-sik speaks during a welcome reception for the defense chiefs and representatives of U.N. Command member states at a hotel in southern Seoul on Nov. 13, 2023. (Yonhap)

Earlier in the day, Shin said the Tuesday session will discuss ways to strengthen interoperability between South Korea and the UNC, and exchange views on possibly expanding the command to include other "like-minded" countries, in a press conference after holding talks with Austin.

The UNC was established in July 1950 under a U.N. mandate to support South Korea against North Korea's aggression the previous month.

Some 1.98 million personnel from 22 countries were dispatched to help South Korea during the war, which ended in a cease-fire, not a peace treaty. More than 40,000 of them died, with 3,950 others missing, according to veterans ministry data.

The current UNC member states are the United States, Britain, Canada, Turkey, Australia, the Philippines, Thailand, the Netherlands, Colombia, Greece, Belgium, France, South Africa, Norway, Denmark and Italy.

During the event, the defense ministry and the JoongAng Ilbo, a local newspaper, presented the Paik Sun-yup ROK-U.S. Alliance Award to the late U.S. Army Col. Kim Young-oak in recognition of his service in the Korean War.

Paik Sun-yup is a late Korean War hero, who led key battles during the conflict. ROK stands for South Korea's official name, the Republic of Korea.

Kim became the first battalion commander of Asian descent in the U.S. military during the war and received the Taegeuk Order or Military Merit from South Korea two months before his death in December 2005.

yunhwanchae@yna.co.kr

(END)

en.yna.co.kr · by Chae Yun-hwan · November 13, 2023

9. Yoon calls for combined defense posture should North conduct a Hamas-style attack

Actually Hamas adopted some of the north Korean style of attack ("one man in the rear is worth ten in the front - Kim Il Sung) and the tunnels in Gaza (and under the DMZ) are one way to accomplish that.

Monday

November 13, 2023

 dictionary + A - A 

Published: 13 Nov. 2023, 00:29

Updated: 13 Nov. 2023, 09:31

Yoon calls for combined defense posture should North conduct a Hamas-style attack

https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2023-11-13/national/defense/Yoon-calls-for-combined-defense-posture-should-North-conduct-a-Hamasstyle-attack/1911415

Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, right, shakes hands with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at the presidential residence in Hannam-dong, central Seoul, during a dinner meeting Sunday. [PRESIDENTIAL OFFICE]

President Yoon Suk Yeol on Sunday called on South Korea and the United States to maintain a combined defense posture to immediately punish North Korea in the case of any miscalculation and provocations, including a Hamas-style surprise attack.

Yoon made the request in a dinner meeting with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr. at the presidential residence in Hannam-dong in Yongsan District, central Seoul, presidential spokesperson Lee Do-woon said in a statement.

Yoon noted that the Ukraine-Russia war and the Israel-Hamas armed conflict were "directly or indirectly linked to North Korea," Lee said.

"Even if North Korea miscalculates and commits any provocation, including a Hamas-style surprise attack, we will maintain a South Korea-U.S. combined defense posture that can immediately and resolutely punish it," Yoon was quoted as saying, referring to the militant group's attack on Israel last month. 

Austin conveyed U.S. President Joe Biden's firm intent to further strengthen the robust South Korea-U.S. alliance more than ever, according to the presidential office.

He reaffirmed his firm commitment to defend South Korea by deploying the full spectrum of U.S. military capabilities.

Yoon also said that since Seoul and Washington launched the Nuclear Consultative Group in July to better deter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, the two sides have closely cooperated to share information, establish a consultation system and strengthen joint planning and execution capabilities. He especially noted the speed in follow-up measures, including the expansion of the deployment of U.S. strategic assets.

Austin said he hoped that cooperation in science and technology, including the space and cyber domains, would be promoted between the young generations of the two countries, the office said. Yoon expressed his hopes that such discussions would continue between the two countries and trilaterally also with Japan.

Yoon and the U.S. defense chiefs discussed other matters of international security and the situation on the Korean Peninsula ahead of the 55th Security Consultative Meeting meeting in Seoul on Monday.

Austin arrived on a three-day trip to Seoul on Sunday.

BY SARAH KIM [kim.sarah@joongang.co.kr]

10. If Trump returns (potential effects on the ROK)

Interesting timing on this OpEd from the Korea Times. It is almost as if it is meant to undermine the 55th SCM or is it timed only because of the recent US polls?

And plan B is ROK nuclear weapons.

But this is a troubling assessment. I get questions about the 2024 election (which I cannot answer of course as we just can't predict the possible outcome) at almost every meeting I have with our ROK counterparts and from the media.

Excerpts:

We hope it also will apply to Washington’s security commitment to Seoul. It may prove to be right, but at a far higher cost. While in office, Trump called for South Korea to quintuple its defense levy. Money may not solve everything. According to Project 2025, a coalition of conservative groups that wrote a transition paper for a Republican president, South Korea will be urged to defend itself from the North’s conventional forces.

The transition paper, led by the Heritage Foundation, urges the U.S. to “not help but strongly encourage” allies to share burdens. Under a new Trump administration, allies will likely be America’s debts, not its assets.

Things might go even worse. U.S. President Joe Biden has encircled China with AUKUS, the Quad, and a trilateral alliance with Japan and South Korea. Positively responding to this policy, President Yoon Suk Yeol turned hawkish against North Korea, improved relations with Japan and stuck withWashington at the relative expense of Beijing and Moscow.

If Trump returns, however, the basic premise for all these moves could crumble. Even the Washington Declaration, Yoon’s biggest diplomatic attainment that calls for extended deterrence by deploying U.S. strategic assets, could go up in smoke. In the worst-case scenario, Seoul may be excluded from the resumed nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang.

If Trump returns

The Korea Times · November 13, 2023

Seoul should devise diplomatic plan B

The U.S. presidential election is a year away.

Most polls show if the election took place today, former President Donald Trump would win.

Of course, one year is a long time in the U.S. political calendar or that of any other country. Numerous variables will lurk in the primary processes of the two major parties. International situations will also play a part.

Foreigners, including Koreans, find it hard to understand how a politician undergoing four criminal trials for 91 alleged felonies — and counting — can run for a public post, let alone the top job. According to U.S. law, however, Trump reportedly can retake his former title even in jail.

That reminds us of some independence fighters or democracy crusaders in ex-colonies or newly established countries. But it is happening in the U.S., arguably the most advanced democracy. Anyway, Trump “looks terrifyingly electable,” as an influential British newspaper said recently. Let’s just chalk it up to American exceptionalism.

Talking heads in and outside the U.S. present mixed outlooks about a possible Trump Season 2. Given what Trump himself says now, however, two things appear certain. In foreign trade, severe protectionism will prevail again, as he will slap a 10 percent universal tariff on all imports. In international politics, the U.S. will likely return to relative isolationism. Trump says he will end the Russia-Ukraine war “in 24 hours.”

The former president also said that he could have solved North Korea’s nuclear crisis, without explaining how, if he had remained on the job. For South Koreans who remember how the summit between Trump and North Korea’s Kim Jong-un broke down in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2019, that seems to be yet another instance of the whimsical politician's bravado. Pyongyang may take it differently, however. A North Korea watcher in Seoul recently predicted Pyongyang would do what it can to get Trump reelected.

The young North Korean leader will find Trump’s positive approach more appealing than the U.S. Democrats’ strategic patience — or calculated neglect. For different reasons, Trump’s non-interventionism might be attractive to authoritarian leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin.

It will be slightly different for Chinese President Xi Jinping because Trump accelerated Obama’s “pivot to Asia” policy. The U.S. will keep China in check no matter who occupies the White House. Some things don’t change regardless of changes in political power.

We hope it also will apply to Washington’s security commitment to Seoul. It may prove to be right, but at a far higher cost. While in office, Trump called for South Korea to quintuple its defense levy. Money may not solve everything. According to Project 2025, a coalition of conservative groups that wrote a transition paper for a Republican president, South Korea will be urged to defend itself from the North’s conventional forces.

The transition paper, led by the Heritage Foundation, urges the U.S. to “not help but strongly encourage” allies to share burdens. Under a new Trump administration, allies will likely be America’s debts, not its assets.

Things might go even worse. U.S. President Joe Biden has encircled China with AUKUS, the Quad, and a trilateral alliance with Japan and South Korea. Positively responding to this policy, President Yoon Suk Yeol turned hawkish against North Korea, improved relations with Japan and stuck withWashington at the relative expense of Beijing and Moscow.

If Trump returns, however, the basic premise for all these moves could crumble. Even the Washington Declaration, Yoon’s biggest diplomatic attainment that calls for extended deterrence by deploying U.S. strategic assets, could go up in smoke. In the worst-case scenario, Seoul may be excluded from the resumed nuclear talks between Washington and Pyongyang.

Capitals worldwide are already getting jittery as Trump’s second term will be more extreme and confusing than the first. That’s how major U.S. media outlets summed up the current sentiment. During the U.N. General Assembly this year, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock drew attention by meeting more Republican leaders than Democrats.

We don’t know whether the Yoon administration is developing a diplomatic plan B. Certainly, Seoul can seldom afford to remain more relaxed than Berlin. “Trumphobia” may be premature, but preparations are necessary.

The Korea Times · November 13, 2023

11. North Korea calls UN command a 'war tool' of U.S., repeats demand for its dissolution

The regime has long made dissolution of the UC a major line of effort in its strategy to dominate the Korean peninsula, I wonder how the north will react when we finally establish a rela Northeast Asia Combatant Command in Korea?

Monday

November 13, 2023

 dictionary + A - A 

Published: 13 Nov. 2023, 17:54

North Korea calls UN command a 'war tool' of U.S., repeats demand for its dissolution

https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2023-11-13/national/northKorea/North-Korea-calls-UN-command-a-war-tool-of-US-repeats-demand-for-its-dissolution-/1911910

Unification Ministry spokesperson Koo Byung-sam calls for questions from reporters at a press briefing held at the Central Government Complex in Jongno District, central Seoul, on Monday. [YONHAP]

North Korea on Monday called for the dissolution of the United Nations Command (UNC) as it claimed an upcoming meeting of defense ministers from South Korea and UNC member states entailed a “dangerous scheme” to plan a “new war of aggression” against the North.

In a statement carried by Pyongyang’s state-controlled Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), North’s foreign ministry alleged that the multinational UNC, which is headed by the commander of United States Forces Korea and staffed by military officers from member states, is a “war tool” of Washington and its allies.

“The UNC, which should have been dissolved decades ago, is now revealing its aggressive nature again, seeking to cook up a declaration of confrontation simulating the second Korean war,” the ministry said.

The ministry also accused the U.S.-led command of intending to transform tensions on the Korean Peninsula into a “war-oriented structure.”

Related Article

Gov't mulling ways to increase Korea's presence in UN Command

UNC confirms talks with North at JSA over G.I. who fled

Defense ministers and representatives from 17 UNC member states and South Korea are due to hold their first-ever meeting on Tuesday in Seoul to examine the role of the multinational command in deterring war on the Korean Peninsula and maintaining peace.

The UNC was established at the beginning of the Korean War in July 1950 with a UN mandate to restore peace on the peninsula after the North launched an invasion of South Korea the previous month.

Since the war, the command has been responsible for upholding the 1953 armistice that halted active hostilities.

The command was formally responsible for South Korea’s defense until that duty was passed onto the South Korea-U. S. Combined Forces Command in 1978.

Pyongyang’s foreign ministry claimed in its Monday statement that the inaugural South Korea-UNC defense representatives’ meeting is a “dangerous scheme to ignite a new war of aggression” against the North.

Tensions on the peninsula have risen in recent years after the North conducted a series of high-profile weapons tests, including launches of intercontinental ballistic missiles that could reach the continental United States.

In response, Washington has increased the regularity of its deployment of strategic assets to the Korean Peninsula and the surrounding region, such as nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and missile submarines, while also conducting large-scale joint military drills with Seoul.

The North’s foreign ministry demanded that the “illegal and aggressive” UNC should be “dissolved without delay,” calling it an “essential prerequisite for restoring the authority and impartiality of the UN and promoting peace and stability of the Korean peninsula.”

Officials participating in Tuesday’s meeting plan to urge Pyongyang to cease its “unlawful activities” and abide by UN Security Council resolutions, which bar tests of ballistic missile technology by the North, according to Seoul’s Defense Ministry.

The ministry also said they would likely adopt a joint declaration calling for a collective response should contingencies arise on the peninsula.

According to sources who spoke to the JoongAng Ilbo, the Yoon Suk Yeol administration is reviewing the possible inclusion of a South Korean major general in the UNC.

The Yoon administration is expected to propose ways to increase Seoul’s participation in the command at Tuesday’s meeting.

Meanwhile, the South Korean Unification Ministry condemned the North’s oft-repeated call for the UNC’s disestablishment as “far-fetched.”

Ministry spokesman Koo Byung-sam called the UNC “a model of international solidarity” that has played “an essential role in safeguarding the freedom and peace” of South Korea since its inception.

Koo also criticized Pyongyang for its claim that the Korean War started with a U.S. invasion of the North, characterizing it as being based on lies.

BY MICHAEL LEE [lee.junhyuk@joongang.co.kr]

12. US, S Korea elevate ties to global alliance amid security challenges

US, S Korea elevate ties to global alliance amid security challenges

Both sides vow to ‘expand activities’ regionally and globally in protecting democratic values.

By Lee Jeong-Ho for RFA

2023.11.13

Seoul, South Korea

rfa.org

The United States and South Korea have agreed to further progress their military alliance into a global partnership – an expansion aimed to address not only threats from North Korea but also broader challenges that impact regional and global peace.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik emphasized during a press conference in Seoul on Monday that their alliance is fundamentally global in nature, dedicated to upholding democratic values worldwide.

“Going forward, the Republic of Korea and the United States will overcome the pressures of extensive geopolitical dynamics, safeguard democratic values, and maintain a rules-based order,” the ministers said in a ‘Defense Vision’ statement Monday, referring to South Korea’s formal name, after the annual Security Consultative Meeting in South Korea’s capital.

“The ROK-U.S. alliance will actively seek a cooperative agenda to lead discussions and expand activities in the region and around the world, aligned with our common values and goals,” the statement said. It highlighted that the bilateral alliance was essential in protecting the values of freedom, peace and prosperity.

The alliance also aims to take a more proactive role in contributing to regional security, including strengthening defense cooperation with Southeast Asian countries and Pacific island nations, added the statement, which also stressed on the security cooperation with Japan to protect democratic values and deal with regional challenges.

The evolution of the bilateral alliance into a global coalition is a strategic and timely response to the increasing complexities of global challenges. With China’s growing clout, coupled with Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war, a strengthened and more globally-oriented alliance becomes crucial in realizing America’s global strategy.

South Korea, a U.S. ally, has been indirectly supplying ammunition to Ukraine through intermediary nations, including the U.S., and has stood with Washington to criticize the Hamas attack on Israel.

The primary role of the alliance, however, is expected to remain concentrated on addressing the growing threat posed by North Korea to global peace, underscoring Pyongyang’s increasingly concerning actions and capabilities.

North Korea was the “most fundamental and urgent threat” to both the U.S. and South Korea, the statement said.

The statement came as South Korea’s National Intelligence Service told its lawmakers in the National Assembly earlier this month that Russia has acquired over 1 million artillery shells from the North since August.

The development demonstrates the strengthening relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow, accentuated by the summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russia September.

The allies reaffirmed the “importance of deterring strategic attacks and aggression by North Korea and other hostile actors in the region through ongoing efforts to strengthen extended deterrence,” where the alliance, according to the statement, will expand the scale and scope of combined exercises and training, including combined joint live-fire drills.

Meanwhile, Pyongyang is preparing for what is anticipated to be its third “satellite” launch. Previous attempts by North Korea to send satellites into orbit in May and August were unsuccessful, and seen constituting as a significant setback for Kim.

Such a launch would contravene United Nations Security Council resolutions prohibiting North Korea from using ballistic missile technology for any launches. North Korea’s past satellite launches have contributed to advancements in its long-range missile capabilities.

Recent tests of North Korean long-range missiles have shown the theoretical capacity to reach the U.S. mainland.

Edited by Elaine Chan and Taejun Kang.

rfa.org

13. ＜Inside N. Korea＞Speaking to a Border Guard (1) Landmine Burial at the Korea-China Border? “Even soldiers are afraid because they don’t know where they’re buried”

A measure to deter anyone from trying to cross into the PRC? I wonder what happened to the soldiers who emplaced the mines? Were they eliminated so that no one could know where the mines were laid?

＜Inside N. Korea＞Speaking to a Border Guard (1) Landmine Burial at the Korea-China Border? “Even soldiers are afraid because they don’t know where they’re buried”

asiapress.org

An armed North Korean border guard doing rounds near the banks of the Yalu River. Taken on the Chinese side of the border across from Sinuiju, North Pyongan Province, in mid-October 2023.

◆ “Smuggling and defections are now impossible”

Over the past three years and 10 months, the Kim Jong-un regime has been intensifying security along the border area with China more than at any other time and completely closing off the Tumen and Yalu riverbanks with barbed-wire fencing and sentry posts. An ASIAPRESS reporting partner said that a border security guard told him that “mines are buried under the ground, leading even soldiers to fear for their lives.” (KANG Ji-won / ISHIMARU Jiro)

In August, the reporting partner, who lives in Yanggang Province, met with “A,” a noncommissioned officer who work as a border guard in the upstream area of the Yalu River. Starting in July, North Korean authorities loosened COVID-era restrictions on soldiers being able to leave their bases. “A” is a veteran border guard in his late 20s. Another reporting partner in North Hamgyung Province surveyed local people about the security system in place on the border.

Rows of barbed-wire fencing along the banks of the Yalu River. The field behind the fencing is likely a buffer zone. Starting in 2020, even farmers are required to get permission to enter such areas. Taken on the Chinese side of the border across from Sakju County, North Pyongan Province.

◆ Surveillance cameras and electrified barbed-wire fencing

“It’s no longer possible for anyone to do smuggling or defect.”

“A” made this firm statement before explaining:

“There are surveillance cameras operating 24-hours-a-day. Personnel area continuously watch the monitors in places that are in particular need for monitoring, and videos are saved to storage so that higher-level officers can view them. North Korea’s electricity situation is very bad, but electricity is sent through the barbed-wire fencing at random times, so border guards are so afraid that they avoid going near the fencing for fear of being electrocuted on rainy days. Construction on a buffer zone 500 meters from the border is continuing, and we’ve been ordered not to allow even on ant from crossing over the border. When the buffer zone construction is completed, civilians won’t be able to approach the border.

A reporting partner in Hoeryong, which is on the banks of the Tumen River, provided the following testimony about the building of a buffer zone in late August.

“Villages near the Tumen River are being demolished to make way for the buffer zone, and the authorities continue to forcibly deport locals to other places. Land owned by collective farms near the border aren’t being destroyed; instead, fences are put around them to limit who can enter them as the harvest continues. Guards enter the farming areas with the farmers to make the farmers do not approach the border. The authorities warn that anyone entering the areas without permission with be fired upon.

The designation of a buffer zone on the border began with a proclamation announced by the national police agency in August 2020, soon after the COVID-19 pandemic began. The proclamation acquired by ASIAPRESS says that “anyone approaching the border will be unconditionally fired upon.”

A proclamation obtained by ASIAPRESS in August 2020, which reads: “Any person or animal that approaches border obstructions will be unconditionally fired upon.”

◆ Are landmines really buried on the border?

Starting in late 2021, unconfirmed reports began to be heard about mines being buried near the banks of the Tumen and Yalu rivers to prevent border crossings and smuggling into China. The authorities also warned local residents not to approach the border areas.

However, would the authorities really bury mines to prevent their own people from crossing the rivers into China? Moreover, floods and other natural disasters could unseat the mines and cause incidents in China. In fact, ASIAPRESS avoided publishing reports about the burying of mines on the border because of a lack of clear evidence.

“A,” the border guard who spoke with a reporting partner in August, gave the following testimony about landmines on the border:

“A specialized military engineering unit placed the mines in the ground. However, it’s a secret where and how many land mines have been buried. That’s why even border guards are scared because they don’t know where the mines are.”

A reporting partner in Hoeryong heard about the landmine situation from locals living near the Tumen River.

“The landmine issue is serious. A local person said there were many mines that were carried down the Tumen River during the monsoon rains this year, so the military and laborers were mobilized to recover and repair the mine installations.”

Daily NK, a North Korea-focused news outlet in South Korea, reported on November 6 that five people attempting to defect to China in mid-October were injured or killed after stepping on a landmine.

ASIAPRESS contacted a reporting partner in Musan County to confirm the story but received the following reply: “I don’t know if that incident occurred.”

Have the North Korean authorities buried landmines on the border? Even if mines have been buried, are they real? North Korea may have buried fake mines to spread fear among would-be defectors. At this point, ASIAPRESS is unable to confirm whether landmines have been buried in the border region.

※ ASIAPRESS communicates with reporting partners through Chinese cell phones smuggled into North Korea.

Map of North Korea ( ASIAPRESS)

asiapress.org

14. Korean War veteran still attempting to get Purple Heart

I guess by authorizing this Purple Heart for a 96 year old veteran the review board must believe it would open the floodgates to veteran's claims; therefore the board must believe it is necessary to deny this claim to prevent future work on these issues.

But I am sure there is more to the story that is not being reported and the full file of information would likely justify the review board's decision.

Korean War veteran still attempting to get Purple Heart

militarytimes.com · by Steve Karnowski, The Associated Press · November 12, 2023

ST. PETER, Minn. — Earl Meyer remembers in vivid detail when his platoon came under heavy fire during the Korean War — he still has shrapnel embedded in his thigh.

But over 70 years later, the 96-year-old is still waiting for the U.S. Army to recognize his injury and to award him a Purple Heart medal, which honors service members wounded or killed in combat.

Meyer has provided the Army with documents to back up his assertion that he was wounded in combat in June 1951. Doctors at the Department of Veterans Affairs agreed that his account of the shrapnel coming from a mortar attack was probably true. But few men in his unit who would have witnessed the battle have survived, and he thinks the medic who treated him on the battlefield was killed before he could file the paperwork.

An Army review board in April issued what it called a final rejection of Meyer’s request for a Purple Heart, citing insufficient documentation. His case highlights how it can be a struggle for wounded veterans to get medals they’ve earned when the fog of war, the absence of records and the passage of time make it challenging to produce proof.

“At first I didn’t know that I had been wounded,” Meyer wrote in a sworn statement that was part of his rejected appeal. “But as my unit advanced from where the mortar rounds were hitting, I noticed that my pants were sticking to my leg. I reached down to correct this and discovered that my hand was covered in blood.”

RELATED

100-year-old veteran getting help seeking Purple Heart for WWII injury

Army veteran Raymond Chambers never received a Purple Heart despite being wounded while serving during World War II.

By Sam Still, Chattanooga Times Free Press

Meyer took the rare step of suing the Department of Defense and the Army in September. The Army’s Office of Public Affairs said it doesn’t comment on ongoing litigation. But after The Associated Press made requests for comment on Meyer’s case, the office of the Army’s top noncommissioned officer, Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Weimer, said that it’s going to take another look.

“The Sergeant Major of the Army’s Office is engaging with Mr. Meyer’s family and looking into the situation,” spokesperson Master Sgt. Daniel Wallace said. “Either way, we’re proud of Mr. Meyer’s service to our country.”

Meyer said in an interview that he wouldn’t have pursued the Purple Heart because his injuries were relatively minor compared to those of many men he served with, but his three daughters persuaded him. Growing up, they knew that he had been injured in the war, but like many veterans, he never talked much about it. It’s only been in the past decade or so that he’s opened up to them, which led them to urge his pursuit of a Purple Heart.

“I think it will provide closure for him. I really do,” said his daughter, Sandy Baker, of New Buffalo, Michigan.

Tony Cross, a disability claims and appeals specialist with the American Legion, the country’s largest veterans’ service organization, said the Legion doesn’t commonly see cases like Meyer’s of medals denied, though it did see one earlier this year. The process is challenging because each military branch has its own approval process and it gets more challenging after a veteran leaves the military, he said.

Meyer’s main obstacle has been the lack of paperwork. He told the AP the medic who bandaged his leg told him he would file the forms to show he was wounded in combat. But he never did. Meyer thinks the medic may have been killed in action. Only a few members of his platoon made it out unharmed.

At the time, Meyer wasn’t hurt badly enough to leave the battlefield. But Army medical records show he injured his back a few days later when he fell down a hill while carrying a machine gun, and then aggravated it again days later while lifting ammunition. He was evacuated to a MASH unit, then a hospital ship. The records show his treatment included a tetanus shot, apparently for the shrapnel injury.

“I still had the hole in my pants and the blood on it,” he said about the time he was hospitalized for his back. He said he still had the patch on his leg. “I should have told them at that time.”

But he wasn’t thinking then about gathering paperwork for a future medal. His mind was on survival.

“I was just glad to get out of there,” he said.

Accidental back injuries generally don’t qualify a service member for a Purple Heart, but wounds from enemy shrapnel can.

Meyer finished out his tour guarding prisoners of war. He was honorably discharged in 1952. His decorations included the Combat Infantryman Badge, which is reserved for those who actively participate in ground combat under enemy fire. He also received the Congressional Gold Medal for his service in the Merchant Marine in World War II.

Earl Meyer, middle left, who fought for the U.S. Army in the Korean War, talks with fellow veterans at the American Legion, Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023, in St. Peter, Minn. (Abbie Parr/AP)

He still has coffee with fellow veterans a couple mornings a week at the St. Peter American Legion post. He said his leg isn’t acutely sore, but it still aches. VA doctors told him they didn’t want to risk surgery to remove the shrapnel because it was too close to his sciatic nerve.

In 2005, doctors at the VA Medical Center in Minneapolis agreed that his leg injury probably happened in combat. “The scar in the left thigh is at least as likely as not (50/50 probability) caused by or a result of a combat fragment wound,” they wrote in one report. “Reasonable doubt has been resolved in your favor,” they wrote in another.

Meyer first applied for a Purple Heart in 2020. The Army denied him, saying he needed more documentation.

So U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar‘s staff then helped him get documents from the National Archives and made numerous follow-up inquiries. But even with the additional evidence, the Army Board for Correction of Military Records turned him down. Klobuchar said this week that she’s not giving up.

“Earl Meyer put his life on the line in defense of our freedoms, and we will continue to do all we can to further the work to rightfully honor his service,” the Minnesota Democrat said in a statement.

In its most recent rejection letter, the board said he must have “substantiating evidence to verify that he was injured, the wound was the result of hostile action, the wound must have required treatment by medical personnel and the medical treatment must have been made a matter of official record.”

The board conceded that “some evidence available for review indicates a possible injury,” but that “based on the preponderance of the evidence available for review, the Board determined the evidence presented insufficient to warrant a recommendation for relief.”

Meyer’s attorney, Alan Anderson, wrote in the lawsuit that review boards have awarded Purple Hearts under similar circumstances — sometimes under court order. He said the board noted the problems of relying solely on medical records when it approved a Purple Heart in a separate 2015 case.

“Under wartime conditions, wounds requiring medical treatment by a medical officer will not always receive such treatment, and, even if a Soldier requiring such treatment receives it, there will be cases where the treatment is not made a matter of official record,” the board said in that case. “In such cases, other sources, including credible statements from colleagues, may be useful in establishing the circumstances in which a Soldier was wounded.”

Karnowski reported from Minneapolis; Perez Winder reported from New Buffalo, Michigan.

De Oppresso Liber,

David Maxwell

Vice President, Center for Asia Pacific Strategy

Senior Fellow, Global Peace Foundation

Editor, Small Wars Journal

Twitter: @davidmaxwell161

Phone: 202-573-8647

email: david.maxwell161@gmail.com