Strengthening the Hanmi Alliance Amid Korean Peninsula Tensions, North Korea-China Closeness

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo In-ho] Amid escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula due to North Korea's missile launches, South Korea and the United States have emphasized their strong alliance. In contrast, North Korea is further strengthening its close ties with China, positioning itself in opposition to the South Korea-US alliance.

On the 20th (local time), the US Department of Defense stated, "There is no stronger ally than South Korea," and added, "The South Korea-US alliance is the greatest deterrent."

John Kirby, spokesperson for the US Department of Defense, responded this way during a regular briefing when asked whether South Korea's successful submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test launch helps deter North Korean provocations, according to Radio Free Asia (RFA) and Voice of America (VOA).

Kirby said, "There is no stronger ally than South Korea," and added, "The alliance itself, its strength, and unity constitute an appropriate deterrent."

He further stated, "The United States continuously works closely with its South Korean allies to maintain complementary military capabilities," and "We will prepare, be ready, and sustain such military capabilities to respond to ongoing threats on the Korean Peninsula."

Recently, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized 'integrated deterrence,' explaining that it is not viewed solely from the US perspective but involves integrating capabilities with allies and partners, including South Korea, across space, cyber, maritime, and air domains.

Earlier, South Korea successfully conducted the world's seventh SLBM test launch on the 15th, and President Moon Jae-in, who observed the test, stated that enhancing missile capabilities could serve as a definite deterrent against North Korean provocations.

General Paul LaCamera, Commander of US Forces Korea and Combined Forces Command, also said, "The combined defense posture on the Korean Peninsula and the South Korea-US alliance are firmer than ever."

General LaCamera met with Kim Jin-ho, Chairman of the Republic of Korea Veterans Association, at the Yongsan base in Seoul on the 16th to discuss recent security issues, including the Afghanistan situation and North Korea's successive missile tests.

General LaCamera emphasized, "The South Korea-US alliance is the foundation not only for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula but also for the security and situation in Northeast Asia, and above all, partnership is crucial." Quoting an African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together," he said he is focusing command capabilities for 'Fight Tonight' and will listen to the advice of senior veterans.

Meanwhile, China showcased its close bilateral relationship by holding a banquet in Beijing to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of North Korea's regime establishment (September 9).

On the 20th, the Korean Central News Agency reported, "On the occasion of the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic, the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the China-DPRK Friendship Association jointly held a celebratory banquet in Beijing on the 17th," adding that "Ri Ryong-nam, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to China, and embassy staff were invited."

From the Chinese side, Lin Songtian, President of the People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, along with officials from the Communist Party's International Liaison Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and the Central Military Commission attended.

President Lin stated, "Over the past 73 years, [North Korea] has overcome all kinds of difficulties and made great progress in carrying out the socialist cause," emphasizing, "The China-DPRK friendship has continuously strengthened amid changes in the international situation and times, becoming a shared treasure passed down through generations."

Ambassador Ri also responded, "In line with the intentions of the top leaders of both countries, we will actively work together with Chinese comrades to solidly develop the China-DPRK friendship and cooperation relationship to a new, higher level."

As the confrontation with the United States has solidified recently, North Korea and China have grown even closer. Kim Jong-un, General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, and Xi Jinping, President of China, have exchanged several letters, and on the international stage, they have represented each other's interests regarding the easing of sanctions on North Korea and issues related to Xinjiang and Hong Kong.