Chun In-bum

In less than two months, the second Donald Trump administration is already reshaping America and the world. Economic tariffs, cryptocurrency regulations and diplomatic initiatives in the Middle East and Europe are putting both friends and foes off balance, creating uncertainty and, in some cases, fear. Koreans, both North and South, are watching these developments closely, assessing the potential impact of U.S. policies and contemplating how best to respond and prepare for a rapidly changing global order.

In South Korea, progressives are advocating for a more capable national military and a shift toward greater independence from the United States. Some even support a direct deal between North Korea and the U.S., potentially excluding South Korea from negotiations. While this may sound like a benign or even pragmatic approach, without the proper safeguards, it represents a highly risky course of action that could undermine national security.

The United States needs allies, but more importantly, it needs capable and reliable allies. South Korea's focus on cost-sharing in the alliance, while important, is missing the broader point. The U.S. does not merely seek financial contributions; it wants partners who are prepared to defend themselves and contribute meaningfully to regional stability. South Korea must first ask itself a fundamental question: Are we truly capable of defending ourselves? If not, we must work toward strengthening our military while maintaining our alliance with the United States.

The current 18-month mandatory military service period is insufficient to meet the operational requirements of modern warfare. Nearly half of the soldiers in combat units are discharged each year, and most units are consistently........

© The Korea Times