The Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States held their 25th Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) from September 23-24, 2024, in Seoul. The meeting aimed to strengthen the U.S.-ROK defense alliance. Mr. Cho Chang Lae, Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy, led the Korean side, while Mr. Anka Lee, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for East Asia, led the U.S. delegation. Senior officials from both countries participated.
Strengthening Defense Against North Korea
The dialogue focused on three key areas: improving extended deterrence against North Korea (DPRK), modernizing alliance capabilities through technology, and enhancing regional security cooperation. Both sides reviewed their progress on these goals and reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the Defense Vision of the U.S.-ROK Alliance. They emphasized the importance of a strong, united defense posture to deter threats from North Korea.
Condemning DPRK’s Provocations
The U.S. and ROK discussed the growing threats from North Korea, particularly its advancing nuclear and missile programs. Both sides strongly condemned North Korea’s missile tests, space launch attempts, and threats to regional stability.
They decided to keep improving extended deterrence by utilizing organizations such as the Nuclear Consultative Group. The US reiterated its “ironclad” pledge to defend South Korea with every defensive capability at its disposal.
Enhancing Missile Defense and Information Sharing
Both countries examined progress on their joint missile defense strategy and discussed future improvements, including better information sharing through the U.S. Shared Early Warning System (SEWS). They pledged to continue developing stronger response capabilities through the Counter-Missile Working Group (CMWG).
Tackling Gray Zone Threats
The dialogue also addressed North Korea’s use of “gray zone” provocations, such as cyberattacks and electromagnetic interference. Both sides acknowledged the importance of closely coordinated responses to these non-traditional threats. They also stressed the need to maintain the Northern Limit Line (NLL), a maritime border that has helped prevent military tensions for decades.
Reviewing Joint Military Exercises
Both sides evaluated the recent ULCHI FREEDOM SHIELD 24 (UFS 24) exercise, which simulated real-world threats like GPS jamming, cyberattacks, and missile strikes. The exercise helped strengthen the alliance’s defense capabilities and interoperability. The scope of future joint exercises would be increased according to an agreement between both the nations.
Concerns Over DPRK-Russian Cooperation
The U.S. and ROK expressed concern about growing military ties between North Korea and Russia. Both sides condemned illegal arms trades and high-tech transfers that violate UN Security Council resolutions. They pledged to work together with the international community to counter these developments and push for full implementation of sanctions against North Korea.
Advancing Defense Technology and Industry Cooperation
The two countries celebrated progress in modernizing their defense capabilities, particularly through cooperation in science and technology. They discussed expanding joint projects in areas like artificial intelligence, autonomous technology, and next-generation communications. Plans for a ROK-U.S. Defense Science and Technology Conference in 2025 were also proposed.
Strengthening Regional Security Cooperation
ROK and the U.S. committed to deepening cooperation with like-minded countries to address shared security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. They discussed enhancing ties with ASEAN nations and Pacific Island countries and pledged to strengthen trilateral security cooperation with Japan.
Looking Ahead
The 25th KIDD reinforced the strength of the U.S.- South Korea alliance and set the stage for further collaboration. Both sides vowed to continue building on these achievements in the upcoming 56th Security Consultative Meeting, scheduled for late 2024.
To read the original press release please visit DOD website.