The United States and South Korea held their fifth Nuclear Consultative Group meeting in Washington on Thursday, strengthening cooperation on nuclear deterrence amid rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
The high-level talks come as both nations seek to bolster their military alliance through enhanced information sharing and joint exercises focused on potential nuclear scenarios.
Deputy Minister for National Defense Policy Hong-Cheol Kim emphasized that South Korea “will assume the leading role in the conventional defense of the Korean Peninsula,” according to a joint press release.
Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Robert Soofer reaffirmed America’s commitment to extended deterrence using all defense capabilities, including nuclear weapons.
The Nuclear Consultative Group, established as an enduring bilateral body, focuses on strengthening deterrence through information sharing, consultation processes, and conventional-nuclear integration. Officials reviewed progress across multiple workstreams during Wednesday’s meeting.
Both leaders highlighted specific activities that enhance alliance cooperation, including the Nuclear Deterrence Immersion Course and tabletop exercises. These programs aim to improve joint decision-making for potential nuclear contingencies.
The officials approved a work plan for early 2026 activities, including the sixth principal-level meeting. Senior defense, foreign affairs, military, and intelligence officials from both nations participated in the discussions.
The meeting builds on the outcomes of the 57th Security Consultative Meeting, as both countries continue to develop their nuclear consultation framework.
