Seoul, South Korea – President Yoon Suk Yeol announced on Monday that South Korea and the United States are on track to complete a strengthened “extended deterrence” regime within the first half of 2024. This regime is designed to counter North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats directly at their source. The announcement was made in a New Year’s Day address, emphasizing South Korea’s commitment to establishing a “genuine and lasting peace” through strength.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the completion of the enhanced South Korea-U.S. extended deterrence system is expected by mid-2024. Extended deterrence is defined as the U.S. commitment to defending an ally with all military capabilities, including nuclear weapons. The Yoon administration has increased cooperation with Washington on nuclear planning and operations, aiming to effectively respond to North Korea’s developing nuclear and missile threats.