South Korea and US to Strengthen Nuclear Strategy: Joint Guidelines and Enhanced Cooperation

South Korea and the United States to Complete Nuclear Strategy Guidelines by Mid-2022

South Korea and the United States have reached an agreement to complete the nuclear strategy guidelines by mid-2022. This decision was made during the 2nd South Korea-US Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) meeting held in Washington. The completion of these guidelines aims to enhance preparedness and coordination between the two countries in the event of a nuclear crisis.

Inclusion of Nuclear Operation Scenarios in Joint Military Exercises

One of the key aspects of the guidelines is the inclusion of nuclear operation scenarios in future joint military exercises. This measure is aimed at strengthening the readiness and cooperation between South Korea and the United States in the face of a nuclear crisis. Kim Tae-hyo, Deputy Director of South Korea’s National Security Office, emphasized the significance of these guidelines in suppressing and responding to North Korea’s nuclear threats.

Establishment of Immediate Communication System

The guidelines will also establish a system for immediate communication between the leaders of South Korea and the United States during a crisis. This system aims to facilitate rapid decision-making and coordination between the two countries. It will play a crucial role in ensuring a swift and effective response in times of crisis.

Enhancing South Korea’s Nuclear IQ and Joint Military Training

Kim Tae-hyo, Deputy Director of South Korea’s National Security Office, mentioned that South Korean officials will continue to receive comprehensive nuclear education programs from their US counterparts. These ongoing education programs aim to enhance understanding of nuclear operations and increase South Korea’s “nuclear IQ.”

The guidelines will also promote joint military exercises, including the upcoming Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG) exercise. These exercises will involve the integration of strategic assets from both the United States and South Korea, ensuring coordinated military activities across all domains – air, sea, and land. This will further strengthen mutual protection and coordination between the two countries.

Regional Cooperation and Finalizing the Guidelines

The NCG, established to respond to North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats, is scheduled to hold its final meeting in June next year. By then, the guidelines will be completed, solidifying the practical foundation of the extended deterrence regime between South Korea and the United States.

Furthermore, discussions are underway to expand the dialogue on extended deterrence to other regional countries such as Japan and Australia. Considering the shared concern over North Korea’s nuclear threats, these countries may engage in separate discussions on extended deterrence.

Conclusion

With the completion of the nuclear strategy guidelines by mid-2022, South Korea and the United States will strengthen their cooperation and preparedness in response to North Korea’s nuclear threats. These guidelines, which include nuclear operation scenarios in joint military exercises and establish an immediate communication system between leaders, aim to ensure a swift and effective response during a crisis. Ongoing education programs and joint military exercises will further enhance South Korea’s preparedness and cooperation with the United States. The NCG’s focus on solidifying the extended deterrence system and exploring potential regional cooperation reflects their commitment to addressing the shared concern of North Korea’s nuclear threats.