US and South Korean Foreign Ministers Issue Strong Warning to North Korea on Imminent Nuclear Test

[Asia Economy Reporter Inho Yoo] The foreign ministers of South Korea and the United States issued a strong warning to North Korea, which is on the verge of its 7th nuclear test, announcing preparations for "short- and long-term military readiness." Targeting Kim Jong-un, General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, they delivered a warning, questioning whether North Korea will face strong pressure from the South Korea-U.S. alliance by proceeding with the nuclear test or engage in dialogue through unconditional complete denuclearization. The two ministers plan to reactivate the extended deterrence strategy consultation group early and discuss the deployment of strategic assets.

Foreign Minister Park Jin and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a South Korea-U.S. foreign ministers' meeting on the 13th (local time) in Washington, D.C., and stated at a press conference, "If North Korea conducts a nuclear test, it will face a swift and resolute response."

Secretary Blinken expressed concern over the possibility of North Korea's 7th nuclear test, saying, "We are not letting our guard down at all," and warned, "The United States is prepared for all emergencies and is ready to adjust appropriate short- and long-term military readiness postures."

In response, Minister Park said, "North Korea has completed preparations for a nuclear test, and only a political decision remains," adding, "North Korea's provocations, including the nuclear test, will face a united and resolute response from South Korea, the United States, and the international community, resulting in increased deterrence, international sanctions, and isolation."

Minister Park mentioned that if North Korea continues provocations, South Korea and the U.S. will pursue an expansion of deterrence. He stated, "South Korea and the U.S. have agreed to reactivate the Extended Deterrence Strategy Consultation Group (EDSCG) early," and "If necessary, the deployment of strategic assets will also be discussed within this consultation group."

Secretary Blinken also pledged that this consultation group will be operational within weeks. He mentioned that discussions are ongoing with South Korea regarding the scope and scale of the expansion of South Korea-U.S. joint military exercises.

However, the South Korea-U.S. foreign ministers also called for dialogue with North Korea, suggesting the possibility of diplomatic options. Secretary Blinken emphasized a diplomatic solution, saying, "We are open to dialogue with North Korea without preconditions." Minister Park also said, "We seek dialogue with North Korea without preconditions and a more flexible and open approach."

The two ministers displayed closeness from their first meeting, addressing each other as ‘Jin’ and ‘Tony.’ Before departing for the U.S., Minister Park posted photos on social media of himself and Secretary Blinken playing guitar, introducing them as "people who love music very much" and saying, "We will create a wonderful harmony between South Korea and the U.S."

After the meeting, Secretary Blinken mentioned the ties between South Korea and the U.S. at a press conference at the State Department building, referring to BTS and TWICE. He said, "I cannot forget the very remarkable recent visit of BTS to the White House, a notable meeting between our two countries," adding, "It was an exciting day for the ‘BTS ARMY’ in the United States." He continued, "The South Korea-U.S. alliance is stronger than ever," and "It has become more vibrant and important than ever before."