Seoul: The Chinese Embassy in Seoul has voiced strong disapproval of recent comments made by U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson, who described South Korea as a "dagger" in Asia. His remarks have drawn criticism amid the ongoing U.S.-China rivalry.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Gen. Xavier Brunson made his controversial comments during a podcast interview with the U.S. Army War College. He referred to South Korea as "the dagger in the heart of Asia," amid speculations about the United States' strategic intentions to leverage USFK resources against China's growing assertiveness. This follows Brunson's previous characterization of South Korea as a "fixed aircraft carrier" in the region.
The Chinese Embassy responded with a statement on social media, condemning Brunson's comments. The embassy's spokesperson accused him of crossing a line, questioning whether these remarks reveal a belligerent stance or aim to use South Korea as a strategic pawn. The statement also referenced a recent summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, questioning if Brunson's comments reflect Washington's official position.
The Chinese spokesperson further challenged whether Brunson's hostile remarks towards China were authorized by Washington or if they contradict the consensus reached during the meeting between the Chinese and U.S. presidents in Beijing. These remarks come as Seoul and Washington are working to modernize their bilateral alliance, with expectations for South Korea to assume a more significant security role, allowing the USFK to address broader regional threats beyond the Korean Peninsula.