The defense chiefs of Japan, the US and South Korea pose for a photo ahead of their talks on the sidelines of the Shangri La Dialogue on June 2, 2024. From left to right are Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik. (courtesy of the Ministry of National Defense)
South Korea, the US, and Japan are close to finalizing a framework for trilateral security cooperation, with upcoming talks in Tokyo set to potentially sign the document. The cooperation aims to tackle shared security threats, including supply chain reorganization and economic security.
Emphasizing high-level exchanges, the framework outlines comprehensive principles for joint training exercises and future plans. South Korea spearheaded the proposal for both the framework and recent joint exercises.
The goal is to institutionalize cooperation in preparation for potential future challenges, such as electoral outcomes or military confrontations like anti-North Korea leaflet launches. The maintenance of security by South Korean and US forces is viewed as crucial for stability in the region.
The meeting in Tokyo will include key defense officials from the three countries, signaling a significant step towards enhanced security collaboration in the region.
By Kim So-youn, Tokyo correspondent
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