U.S. Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth praised South Korea’s plan to boost defense spending as the allies look to strengthen deterrence against North Korea. Hegseth, speaking after annual security talks with South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back in Seoul, emphasized that Seoul’s commitment to raising defense spending and investing in its own military capabilities is a critical factor in ensuring regional stability.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, in a speech to parliament on Tuesday, sought approval for an 8.2% increase in defense spending for the upcoming year. The president highlighted that the increase would be used for modernizing the military’s weapons systems and reducing reliance on the United States. Hegseth stated that the joint investments would enhance South Korea’s ability to lead its conventional deterrence efforts against its northern neighbor.
Moreover, Hegseth emphasized the importance of South Korea’s shipbuilding capabilities in maintaining the readiness of U.S. warships, ensuring that the U.S.’s most advanced military assets remain operational for any potential crisis. He underscored that the strengthening of the South Korea-U.S. alliance is essential for addressing the growing security threats, especially from North Korea, which he described as a dangerous environment requiring coordinated efforts between the two nations.
The alliance’s focus on North Korean aggression remains central, though Hegseth acknowledged the need for flexibility in addressing other regional contingencies. However, he reiterated that the primary mission is to ensure the security of the Republic of Korea and maintain the extended nuclear deterrence as it has been in the past. The discussions also touch upon integrating U.S. nuclear weapons with South Korean conventional forces, although South Korea has consistently denied any intention of pursuing its own nuclear program.
Recent developments include the detection of North Korea conducting an artillery test near its western waters, as reported by South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff. This occurred shortly before Hegseth’s arrival at an inter-Korean border village, where he conducted part of his two-day visit with Ahn. Hegseth also visited the Demilitarized Zone on the border with North Korea earlier in the week.