WASHINGTON (CHATNEWSTV) — The United States and South Korea held the fourth meeting of their Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) on January 10, 2025, reaffirming their commitment to strengthening extended deterrence and enhancing nuclear deterrence capabilities in the face of ongoing threats from North Korea.
The NCG, established as part of the landmark U.S.-ROK Washington Declaration in April 2023, is a bilateral initiative designed to combat the growing nuclear threat posed by North Korea and strengthen cooperation on nuclear and strategic planning. Co-chaired by Ms. Cara Abercrombie, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, and Dr. Cho Chang Lae, South Korea’s Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy, the meeting was attended by officials from the U.S. National Security Council, the ROK National Security Office, and key defense, foreign affairs, intelligence, and military authorities from both nations.
“The NCG is a tangible symbol of the U.S.’s unwavering commitment to extended deterrence,” said a U.S. official. “By working closely with South Korea, we aim to ensure both nations are prepared to confront the nuclear threat posed by the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.”
The NCG facilitates more coordinated decision-making between the U.S. and South Korea, focusing on issues such as nuclear and conventional integration, joint exercises, and the establishment of secure communication systems. It operates as an equal partnership, meeting twice annually, with working-level consultations taking place more frequently.
“Through the NCG, we’ve established a more resilient and effective framework to manage nuclear crises, ensuring that our nations are prepared for any contingency,” said a South Korean defense official. “This cooperation is crucial for maintaining stability in the region.”
The meeting focused on advancing nuclear deterrence cooperation, particularly through discussions on security and information sharing, joint nuclear and strategic planning, and integration of conventional and nuclear forces. Both sides reviewed progress on several key workstreams, including exercises, simulations, and strategic messaging. The NCG also assessed efforts to establish dedicated secure communication systems and nuclear consultation processes during crises.
The United States reaffirmed its commitment to South Korea, underscoring that any nuclear attack by North Korea would be met with a swift and overwhelming response. “This commitment is backed by the full range of U.S. capabilities, including nuclear deterrence,” Abercrombie said.
The NCG’s efforts have led to improved information sharing, more frequent exchanges between experts, and enhanced visibility of U.S. strategic assets on the Korean Peninsula, such as visits by nuclear-powered submarines. These actions highlight the strength of the U.S.-South Korea defense alliance, with both nations committed to maintaining a unified stance against North Korea’s nuclear provocations.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
