Shin Kyubaek Visits Combined Forces Command Wartime Post, Highlights Strength of ROK-US Alliance

On August 20, Minister of National Defense Shin Kyubaek stated regarding the Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) exercise, "This exercise is the first to be conducted since the launch of the people's sovereignty government, and it is a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the strength of the ROK-US alliance and to reinforce our combined defense posture."

On this day, Minister Shin visited the ROK-US Combined Forces Command’s wartime command post (CP TANGO) to inspect the combined defense posture and encourage ROK and US service members participating in the UFS exercise. He said, "I ask ROK and US service members to stand shoulder to shoulder and devote themselves to the exercise so that we can establish the 'Fight Tonight' combined defense posture."

Minister Shin continued, "Just as the Combined Forces Command’s motto is 'the bulwark of peace,' seeing all of you, who are the cornerstone of Korea’s security, is very reassuring. The sweat that ROK and US service members are shedding together at this very moment is the driving force that protects the peace of Korea," adding, "I ask that you do your utmost in your respective roles and duties until the end of the exercise."