On January 10, 2025, the United States and the Republic of Korea (ROK) convened their fourth Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) meeting in Washington, D.C., reaffirming their commitment to regional peace and stability. This enduring bilateral platform aims to strengthen extended deterrence, ensuring security on the Korean Peninsula.
Co-chaired by Ms. Cara Abercrombie, the acting Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, and Dr. Cho Chang Lae, ROK’s Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy, the meeting gathered key officials from both nations’ defense, foreign affairs, intelligence, and military sectors. Together, they discussed the significant strides made in nuclear deterrence over the past year, emphasizing in-depth consultations on areas such as information sharing, joint planning, and consultative mechanisms.
The U.S. reiterated its ironclad commitment to the ROK, warning that any nuclear attack by North Korea would result in a swift, overwhelming response, signaling the end of the regime. Both nations also highlighted strengthened cooperation through various consultation bodies, including the NCG, which focuses on nuclear and strategic planning, and conventional-nuclear integration (CNI).
The meeting underscored the continued advancement of initiatives like exercises, secure communication systems, and strategic messaging, all designed to enhance deterrence capabilities. Furthermore, the NCG reaffirmed its role as a vital consultative mechanism, driving U.S.-ROK cooperation and ensuring integrated deterrence. Looking ahead, the co-chairs approved a workplan for 2025, with plans for the fifth meeting to be hosted in South Korea, marking another significant milestone in this critical partnership.
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