Things Lee should do to keep ROK-US alliance strong
Chun In-bum
The new South Korean administration, led by President Lee Jae-myung, brings cautious optimism for political stability in the country. His emphasis on economic recovery has been welcomed by his supporters, especially at a time when global uncertainties and domestic concerns have shaken public confidence. While economic challenges remain considerable, the administration’s early messaging offers hope to those looking for a pragmatic and steady approach to governance.
In the realm of national security, Lee has signaled continuity where it matters most — reaffirming the importance of the U.S.-South Korea alliance while also expressing a willingness to ease tensions with the North. One of his first symbolic moves was halting the loudspeaker broadcasts aimed at North Korea along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), a measure likely intended to restore an atmosphere for inter-Korean dialogue.
In addition, the administration has publicly expressed interest in resuming the Comprehensive Military Agreement, signed on Sep. 19, 2018, between the two Koreas. The landmark agreement was aimed at reducing military tensions and preventing accidental clashes along the DMZ and especially along the Northern Limit Line. However, it was effectively suspended in June 2024 following escalatory actions and breakdowns in inter-Korean trust. Today, it exists more as a historical reference than as a functional agreement. The idea of reviving it reflects Lee’s desire for a return to diplomacy, but this must be approached with strategic caution.
Any unilateral moves to reengage the North or revive dormant agreements must be closely coordinated with the United States and other allies. The alliance is not simply a military posture — it is a political commitment requiring mutual understanding and consultation. Given the persistent risk of misinterpreting intentions, dialogue between allies must go beyond action and focus on intent. Misalignment on sensitive issues, even if unintended, can lead to misunderstanding or worse, policy divergence.
The Lee administration enters office during a time of intensified global polarization. For decades, Korea was able to enjoy the benefits of a diversified foreign policy — maintaining strong economic ties with China and Russia while benefiting from the security umbrella of the United States. That balancing act is becoming increasingly untenable. The geopolitical landscape has changed, and Korea now faces a world where fence-sitting is not always a viable strategy.
Consider the example of Russia. Some Korean firms are quietly looking for opportunities to resume commercial activities with Russian partners. However, even if the war in Ukraine were to end tomorrow, the geopolitical cost of doing business with Russia remains high. Many European nations — and certainly Ukraine — would view such a move as inconsistent with international norms and values. Reengagement with Russia might bring short-term economic gain but carries long-term reputational and diplomatic risks. Korean companies, and indeed the government, must weigh these factors carefully.
In another example, reports indicate that the Pentagon is reviewing the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States to ensure its alignment with President Donald Trump’s renewed “America First” agenda. Whether or not this signals a full strategic reorientation, it reflects a global trend: nations are reevaluating their alliances and commitments based on national interest, rather than multilateral principles. This underscores the importance of Korea having its own clear-eyed strategy grounded in principle and supported by informed public consensus.
Korea can no longer afford ambiguity about its role in the regional and global order. It must decide whether it sees itself as a core stakeholder in the rules-based international system or as a hedging power that adjusts course depending on the direction of the wind. Either posture comes with costs — but not making a choice is no longer a luxury Korea can afford.
That means establishing principles that are not only well-considered but also clearly communicated to both domestic and international audiences. It means accepting that trade-offs are inevitable. Pursuing economic cooperation with authoritarian regimes may endanger ties with democratic partners. Favoring values over markets may carry short-term and long-term pain. But values-based statecraft is becoming more relevant, not less, in today’s fractured world.
This also places renewed urgency on national self-reliance in security matters. While its alliance with the U.S. remains foundational, Korea must be prepared to shoulder more responsibility for its own defense posture. This does not necessarily mean greater military spending alone, but rather a comprehensive national security strategy that integrates diplomacy, deterrence, economic resilience and civil preparedness.
The road ahead is complex, but not insurmountable. Korea remains a vibrant democracy, a global economic player and a respected member of the international community. With clear vision and responsible leadership, it can chart a course that protects national interests while contributing to global stability.
Lee’s administration stands at a critical juncture. Its early decisions will signal Korea’s trajectory not just for the next five years, but for the next generation. Strategic clarity, close alliance management and courageous decision-making will be the pillars of a successful and responsible Korean foreign policy.
Chun In-bum (truechun@naver.com) served as a lieutenant general in the ROK Army and was commander of Special Forces Korea.