Top U.S. and South Korean defense officials met on Wednesday at the Pentagon for the 56th U.S.-Republic of Korea Security Consultative Meeting. They discussed plans to deepen joint technology pursuits, promote regional security, and co-modernize weapons arsenals. Both Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and ROK Minister of National Defense Kim Yong-Hyun pledged to strengthen cooperation in science, technology, and defense industry.
They agreed to launch a new Regional Cooperation Framework covering various focus areas, including maritime security and defense industrial cooperation. The creation of a Defense Science and Technology Executive Committee was also announced to explore cutting-edge technologies in the defense sector. Plans to upgrade shared early warning systems and missile defense capabilities were discussed to counter North Korea’s missile threats.
The meeting coincided with North Korea’s deployment of troops to support Russia in the Ukraine conflict. Both Austin and Kim expressed deep concerns about North Korea’s involvement, with Kim calling it a war crime. He warned that North Korea might seek technology transfers from Russia in exchange for deploying their troops.
Looking ahead, Austin and Kim will join Secretary of State Antony Blinken and ROK Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul for a “2+2” foreign and defense ministers meeting. The officials are committed to enhancing cooperation to address regional security challenges and maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
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