Remarks from a US general about South Korea’s military role in East Asia have put Seoul in a tight spot, says Robert Kelly of Pusan National University.
General's "dagger in Asia" forces Seoul to choose: US alliance with constraints or double defense budget for autonomy. Strategic autonomy is prohibitive for exporters—US protection is cheap but limits regional options; true independence needs massive tax increases.
Commentary
Remarks from a US general about South Korea’s military role in East Asia have put Seoul in a tight spot, says Robert Kelly of Pusan National University.
US Army soldiers take part in the annual Freedom Shield joint military training near the demilitarised zone separating South and North Korea, in Yeoncheon, South Korea, Mar 14, 2026. REUTERS/Kim Soo-hyeon
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