Seoul, July 11, 2025 – The United States and the Republic of Korea held high-level Director-General level consultations on July 10-11, 2025, as part of efforts to strengthen the bilateral alliance.
The two-day talks were led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Kevin Kim for the U.S. delegation and ROK Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director-General for North American Affairs Hong Jeepio for the ROK side. Key foreign affairs and defense officials from both countries also participated in the discussions.
Modernizing the Alliance for a Future-Oriented Partnership
The main focus of the consultations was to modernize the U.S.-ROK alliance into a future-oriented, comprehensive strategic partnership. Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening their bilateral relationship in the face of an evolving regional security environment.
- Key areas of discussion included defense cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts, and economic partnerships.
- The U.S. delegation also expressed interest in expanding cooperation on non-proliferation and cybersecurity issues.
A Mutually Beneficial Partnership
Hong Jeepio stated that the ROK values its alliance with the U.S. as a cornerstone of regional stability and security, emphasizing the importance of strengthening their partnership to address shared challenges.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Kim noted that the two countries have a long-standing commitment to mutual defense and cooperation, which serves as a foundation for their strong alliance.
A Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The consultations aimed to enhance collaboration on issues of common interest, including regional security, economic development, and people-to-people exchanges. The U.S.-ROK alliance has always been guided by the principles of mutual respect, trust, and cooperation.
Both countries recognize that their partnership is essential for maintaining peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as addressing shared global challenges.
A Stronger Alliance for a Brighter Future
The talks concluded with both sides agreeing to continue their collaborative efforts to strengthen the U.S.-ROK alliance. This includes implementing new initiatives, deepening economic partnerships, and enhancing defense cooperation.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Kim emphasized that the U.S.-ROK alliance is a cornerstone of regional stability and security, adding that the two countries will work together to address emerging challenges and promote peace and prosperity in the region.
A Future-Oriented Alliance for a Brighter Tomorrow
In conclusion, the consultations underscored the importance of strengthening the U.S.-ROK alliance as a cornerstone of regional stability and security. With shared interests and values, both countries will work together to address emerging challenges and promote peace and prosperity in the region.