Seoul, Nov 15 (IANS) South Korean and US officials projected strong confidence in the direction of their partnership, describing it as a “model” and “forward-looking” alliance during celebrations marking Korean National Day and Armed Forces Day in Washington. The upbeat tone followed the release of a joint fact sheet outlining expanded cooperation on security, trade and technology — a move that eased recent speculation over delays.
The event, held at the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium — the birthplace of the North Atlantic Treaty — was attended by South Korean Ambassador Kang Kyung-wha, senior US defence and State Department officials, and top military leaders. Ambassador Kang noted that the alliance, now spanning more than seven decades, continues to evolve into a comprehensive strategic partnership covering defence, economics and advanced technology. She highlighted the recent breakthrough in trade negotiations as a key milestone strengthening bilateral cooperation.
US Under Secretary of Defence Elbridge Colby praised South Korea’s decision to raise defence spending to 3.5% of GDP, calling it a mark of genuine commitment and describing the country as a “model ally” outside NATO. Senior US diplomat Michael DeSombre added that the strong rapport between President Lee Jae Myung and President Donald Trump has propelled the alliance to new heights.
Military leaders emphasised that the partnership extends far beyond defence, rooted in shared values and people-to-people connections, including the global popularity of Korean culture. Officials from both nations expressed confidence that the alliance will grow even stronger in the decades ahead.
