US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said on November 4 that the US-South Korea alliance will continue to focus on deterring North Korea, but Washington also considered a level of flexibility for US forces stationed in South Korea to respond to threats in the region.
The statement was made during Mr. Hegseth's visit to South Korea, including a visit to the demilitarized zone on the border with North Korea.
At a joint press conference with the South Korean Defense Minister, Mr. Hegseth emphasized that the two sides are still finalizing a joint statement, which is expected to mention issues of defense costs and increased military investment. He said the two countries have reached an agreement to let South Korea undertake the maintenance and repair of US warships, helping to maintain operational readiness in the region.
On the Korean side, the country has stepped up its defense capabilities over the past two decades with the goal of receiving wartime command of the US-Korea joint forces. The South Korean military currently has about 450,000 soldiers.
Mr. Hegseth said that US President Donald Trump supports South Korea's plan to build a nuclear-powered Submarine, with the desire to strengthen the strength of its allies.
The president wants our allies to have the best capabilities, Hegseth said, asserting that the US considers South Korea a model ally and is ready to cooperate to enhance common defense capabilities.
South Korean officials say the country could launch a nuclear-powered Submarine by the mid-2030s if it receives fuel from the United States.
In response to concerns that Seoul could develop its own nuclear weapons, the South Korean Deputy Defense Minister affirmed that the country still adheres to the nuclear Non-Distribution Treaty and will not develop nuclear weapons.
