South Korea and US Conduct Joint Military Exercises to Counter North Korea’s Nuclear Threat

South Korea and US Conduct Joint Military Exercises to Prepare for North Korea’s Nuclear Threat

South Korea and the United States have commenced joint military exercises that include scenarios involving nuclear operations. The purpose of these exercises is to enhance preparedness for the nuclear threat posed by North Korea. The two nations have agreed to develop guidelines on nuclear strategy planning and operations by mid-next year, with the aim of establishing an expanded deterrence system by June 2023.

Guidelines for Nuclear Strategy Planning and Operations

The guidelines will encompass various aspects, including sensitive information sharing, security system establishment, crisis consultation procedures, construction of secure communication channels between the leaders, and real-time communication capabilities. Additionally, a system for immediate communication between the leaders of South Korea and the US during a nuclear crisis is being established, with portable equipment already delivered to facilitate such communication.

Second Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) Meeting

The second NCG meeting, held in Washington, D.C., involved representatives from the National Security Council, intelligence agencies, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, US Forces Korea, and the US Indo-Pacific Command. During the meeting, the work plan for the next six months was approved, with a focus on advancing the South Korea-US integrated deterrence system.

Integration of Nuclear and Non-Nuclear Forces

Efforts are underway to integrate and operate nuclear and non-nuclear forces on the Korean Peninsula, enabling joint military operations. The deployment of US strategic assets in the vicinity of the Korean Peninsula will be coordinated to strengthen the deterrence system.

Joint Military Exercises and Nuclear Operation Scenarios

In upcoming joint military exercises, including the Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG) exercise, nuclear operation scenarios will be incorporated. This signifies a shift in approach, as both South Korea and the US will prepare, practice, and execute nuclear operation scenarios together to enhance their readiness.

Managing Crisis and Reducing Risks

Plans will be developed to effectively manage and reduce the risks associated with a North Korean nuclear threat. These plans will focus on addressing the essence of a crisis, avoiding unnecessary misunderstandings or counterproductive actions, and implementing measures to mitigate risks and engage in political message management simultaneously.

Concerns of Regional Allies and Potential Collaborations

Other countries in the Indo-Pacific region, including Japan and Australia, are closely monitoring the North Korean nuclear threat. Collaboration between South Korea, the US, and other regional nations, such as Japan, to address the nuclear threat and establish separate deterrence dialogues, is also a possibility.

Future Outlook and NCG’s Role

The NCG meetings serve as a platform to shape the future of the South Korea-US integrated deterrence system. The goal is to complete the system’s substantial foundation by June, with the possibility of additional NCG meetings to maintain and manage the deterrence system thereafter.

Overall, the joint military exercises and ongoing efforts between South Korea and the US demonstrate their commitment to addressing North Korea’s nuclear threat and ensuring regional stability.