South Korean Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha told lawmakers on Monday that the Moon administration will not participate in a US-led missile defense system, according to a report from the Korea Herald.
“There is no change in our stance that we will not participate in the US’ MD networks,” Kang was quoted as saying.
The minister was presumably referring to any proposed networks above and beyond the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense anti-missile system (THAAD) batteries already deployed in South Korea. “Let me be clear on this. As explained on many occasions before, the THAAD system is a self-defense measure that has nothing to do with the MD,” Kang added, suggesting that the US missile defense network in question is not defensive in nature.
Kang added in her statement that “we are not considering any additional THAAD deployments.”
The comments come amid reports that South Korea’s relations with China are finally thawing after Beijing retaliated against Seoul’s deployment of THAAD systems with informal economic sanctions.
The minister also made clear that trilateral cooperation between Seoul, Washington and Tokyo did not amount to a military alliance.
“The security cooperation among South Korea, the United States and Japan operates within the frame of effectively countering and deterring North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats — It will not develop into a military alliance,” she said.
Confirming earlier reports that the first visit by South Korean President Moon Jae-in to Beijing may be in the works, Kang said that Seoul plans to talk with Beijing about arranging a visit soon.
tthankfully tensions in South Korea might begin to thaw out, they would be good to learn that America is not seeking peace, just look at the trail of destruction that follows them around,, it is not a coincidence.
America seeks to restrain China and stay on top of the power game. Imposing its order upon the world.
To remain number one world power.
China is patiently trying to change this status quo an exert its own power in the world.
South Korea is stuck between these two opposing forces as with many other Asian countries.
Let’s see if China manages to unite Asia and push the US back without any wars.