Seoul
South Korea’s National Security Advisor, Shin Won-sik, stated on Tuesday that South Korea has evolved beyond being a “one-sided beneficiary” of its alliance with the United States. Speaking at the 2024 Global Dialogue on Korean Peninsula Unification, Shin emphasized South Korea’s commitment to working with the incoming US administration, led by Donald Trump, to counter North Korea’s nuclear threat.
Shin noted that South Korea now serves as an active partner in regional and global security. He pledged that the country would continue to safeguard its core interests and uphold its security posture through an integrated nuclear deterrence system in close alignment with the United States.
Shin criticized North Korea’s recent alliance with Russia, particularly a “comprehensive strategic partnership” treaty signed by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. He described North Korea’s growing military cooperation with Russia as a “dangerous gamble,” especially if it involves the exchange of sensitive military technology.
Warning of the security risks posed by North Korea’s potential military experience gained from supporting Russia in the Ukraine conflict, Shin underscored that this war holds significant implications for South Korea’s security.
