S. Korea, US, Japan discuss defense cooperation against backdrop of threats from North Korea

South Korea, the US and Japan discussed defense cooperation against the backdrop of threats from North Korea (photo: GettyImages)

Representatives of the defense ministries of South Korea, Japan, and the US held a video conference to discuss countering threats from North Korea, according to Yonhap.

The talks took place against the backdrop of concerns over this year’s weapon tests being conducted by the North Korean capital, Pyongyang.

“(The three sides) agreed that the DPRK’s provocative actions including nuclear and missile developments reflect the importance of increasing the depth, scale, and scope of trilateral cooperation,” the JCS said in an English-language release.

The countries noted efforts to strengthen security cooperation, such as the launch of a real-time North Korean missile warning data exchange system and the development of a multi-year plan for trilateral military exercises in December of last year.

American General Charles Brown also confirmed the US commitment to the defense of South Korea and Japan, and all countries recognized that trilateral cooperation helps ensure peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, in the Indo-Pacific region, and beyond.

The US, South Korea, and Japan intend to hold another face-to-face meeting this summer.

Threats from North Korea

Earlier, we reported that North Korea is conducting tests of an engine for a new hypersonic missile.

We also reported that North Korea launched several ballistic missiles towards the East Sea.

By the way, North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un, during military exercises, called on the army to intensify preparations for war.