Strengthening the Alliance: The Crucial Role of the Indo-Pacific Command

As I reflect on the importance of the Korea-US alliance, I am reminded of the pivotal role that the United States Indo-Pacific Command plays in taking this partnership to the next level. Amid growing geopolitical tensions beyond the Korean Peninsula, it is crucial that we acknowledge the significance of this command in supporting our combined combat readiness and providing US augmentation in case of a contingency.

During my recent visit to the Indo-Pacific Command’s headquarters at Camp H. M. Smith in Halawa, Hawaii, I was struck by the dedication and commitment of the troops stationed there. As I addressed the 400 US troops, I emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific Command as the central pillar of the ROK-US alliance. It is indeed the driving force behind our efforts to defend the rules-based order and promote values and norms in the region.

The Indo-Pacific Command: A Key Player in the Korea-US Alliance

The current geopolitical landscape is marked by growing instability, with concerns about military exchanges between North Korea and Russia. The latter’s use of North Korean ammunition and weapons in its war against Ukraine has raised eyebrows, and it is imperative that we stand together to defend our freedom, democracy, and prosperity.

“I stand here amid a wave of global geopolitical situations and instability on the Korean Peninsula, because visiting no other place can better demonstrate and strengthen our ironclad alliance and robust combined defense posture than coming to the Indo-Pacific Command,” I said during my address.

It is crucial that we recognize the importance of international solidarity in fighting against reckless actors. The recent treaty on comprehensive strategic partnership between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised concerns about the strengthening of their military and economic cooperation. We must unite in solidarity to defend our values and norms.

Unity in the Face of Global Geopolitical Instability

As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize strength and cooperation between countries that share common values. I firmly believe that our robust combined defense posture and ironclad alliance will be the driving force behind our efforts to defend our freedom, democracy, and prosperity.

A Rock-Solid Alliance in the Face of Global Challenges