South Korea uneasy as US weighs moving air defences to Middle East

Reports that Washington could redirect some US military assets from South Korea to the Middle East have stirred unease in Seoul, reviving concerns that a crisis elsewhere could compromise deterrence on the Korean peninsula.

Analysts said a redeployment of missile-defence systems could leave South Korea feeling vulnerable to North Korean “adventurism” and signal Washington’s “shifting priorities and lack of seriousness” towards its Indo-Pacific allies.

Citing a South Korean government official, the Dong-A Ilbo reported on Thursday that Washington and Seoul were in talks regarding US munitions requirements and the possible redeployment of US Forces Korea (USFK) assets to the Middle East.

The ongoing war between the US and Iran has led to an increased demand for munitions such as strike and interceptor missiles, raising the possibility that key USFK capabilities may be redirected.

Expressing caution, South Korea’s Ministry of National Defence said USFK’s mission was to maintain a strong combined defence posture with South Korean forces and contribute to peace and stability on the Korean peninsula and in the wider region.