SEOUL: Acting Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho and Gen. Paul LaCamera, commander of the South Korea-U.S. Combined Forces Command, reaffirmed the "steadfast" alliance between South Korea and the United States during a teleconference on Thursday. The discussions occurred against the backdrop of a failed martial law declaration last week, heightening security concerns on the Korean Peninsula.According to Yonhap News Agency, the teleconference focused on the need to strengthen the combined defense posture of both nations. Both sides emphasized the importance of continuing pre-planned training and exercises while enhancing communication to deter threats from North Korea. The discussions highlighted the necessity of managing the current situation stably and effectively.Gen. LaCamera, who also commands the U.S. Forces Korea and the U.N. Command, expressed his commitment to maintaining the alliance and a robust defense posture. "We remain prepared to respond to external threats while completely respecting the ROK sov ereignty and individual rights," he stated. He added that efforts would be made to mitigate risks to planned combined training activities and reassure the South Korean population of their readiness to defend them.In related developments, Gen. LaCamera recently spoke at a change-of-command ceremony at Osan Air Base, where Lt. Gen. David R. Iverson assumed command of the U.S. 7th Air Force. Iverson also serves as the deputy commander of the U.S. Forces Korea, further cementing the collaborative military efforts between the two nations.
- September 13, 2026
