US: "Biden to Confirm 'Firm Response to North Korean Threat' During South Korea-Japan Visit"

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] The U.S. Department of State stated on the 20th (local time) that President Joe Biden's visits to South Korea and Japan are intended to send a clear message of firm response to North Korea's threats and attacks.

Ned Price, spokesperson for the Department of State, said during a phone briefing that "there is still concern that North Korea may attempt additional provocations such as missile launches or nuclear tests during or after President Biden's visit." This is consistent with the messages the Biden administration has repeatedly conveyed ahead of the visit.

Spokesperson Price emphasized, "President Biden is currently in the region to send a message of solidarity with our partners and to assure our allies and partners that (the U.S.) will be there to provide deterrence."

He added that President Biden will make it clear through the South Korea-U.S. summit and the Japan-U.S. summit that the United States will respond firmly to any threats and attacks.

John Kirby, spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense, also warned of North Korea's provocations. He explained, "Five of the seven U.S. treaty allies are in the Pacific. There is a genuine commitment there," adding, "That is why the President is meeting with our two steadfast allies."

He further pointed out that despite the U.S. having expressed willingness for unconditional dialogue multiple times, North Korea has shown no such signs, criticizing it as "an indication that North Korea wants to continue developing weapons."

President Biden, who arrived in South Korea the previous day, is scheduled to hold a summit with President Yoon Seok-yeol on the 21st.