South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) Chairman Kim Myung Soo visited the Joint Security Area (JSA) at Panmunjom last Friday, accompanied by General Xavier Brunson, Commander of United Nations Command (UNC), Combined Forces Command (CFC), and U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). During the visit, they inspected operational readiness against potential enemy provocations and encouraged South Korean and U.S. troops stationed there.
Chairman Kim and Commander Brunson personally inspected key operational facilities within the JSA, including areas near the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), to assess the current operational posture. While on-site, Chairman Kim emphasized, “You are on the front line of South Korea’s defense and serve as a symbol of the ironclad ROK-U.S. alliance. Carry out your mission with pride.” He also reaffirmed that “The ROK-U.S. combined defense posture remains unwavering. If North Korea provokes, we must ensure an immediate and powerful retaliation by further enhancing our combined operational capabilities.”
Commander Brunson reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a strong combined defense posture, stating that it is the core of South Korea’s security. He emphasized that the alliance remains committed to deterring any hostile actions and defending South Korea.
Both leaders stressed that realistic combined exercises and training are key to this commitment. They highlighted interoperability, readiness, deterrence, and South Korea’s defense as fundamental priorities.
This JSA visit marked the first joint field inspection by South Korean and U.S. leadership since Commander Brunson took office. The visit was conducted to directly assess and review recent changes in the security situation along the border.
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