Cheong Wa Dae: "Even if some USFK assets are moved overseas, there will be no problem with deterrence against North Korea"

[Financial News] Cheong Wa Dae stated on the 11th, regarding the possibility that part of the United States Forces Korea (USFK) assets could be moved overseas, "Regardless of whether they are moved, when we consider the level of our military capabilities, the scale of our defense spending, the strength of our defense industry, and the high morale of our troops, there is absolutely no issue with our deterrence against North Korea."
Cheong Wa Dae made this comment in response to media reports that, following the redeployment of MIM-104 Patriot systems, air defense assets such as Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) had also been sent to the Middle East.
However, it added, "It is not appropriate for our government to comment on the operation of forces between the two countries," and explained, "South Korea and the United States seek to maintain a firm combined defense posture in order to contribute to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region." It went on to say, "To that end, the two countries will continue close communication and coordination."
Cheong Wa Dae also said, "We ask that you bear in mind that excessive reporting and speculative articles on militarily sensitive matters are not desirable in light of our security interests, the safety of our citizens overseas, our external defense industry cooperation, and our relations with key Middle East countries."
Since the outbreak of war involving the Islamic Republic of Iran, there have been a series of reports about the possible redeployment of USFK air defense assets to the Middle East. Cheong Wa Dae, however, has maintained the position that it is not appropriate for the government to comment directly on the matter. Even after The Washington Post (WP) reported the previous day that part of the USFK THAAD system was being moved to the Middle East, Cheong Wa Dae has continued to take the same stance.
Because the operation of USFK assets is a sensitive issue that can affect not only security on the Korean Peninsula but also diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, Cheong Wa Dae appears to be focusing on managing the situation while refraining from detailed public comments. The fact that the future course of developments in the Middle East remains uncertain is also cited as a reason for this cautious approach.
Meanwhile, Cheong Wa Dae is holding daily policy meetings to review and analyze international trends related to the Middle East, their domestic impact, and the government’s responses, with a particular focus on security and economic issues.
west@fnnews.com Seong Seok-woo Reporter