How to Constructively and Safely Reduce and Realign US Forces on the Korean Peninsula

[soryang]

How to Constructively and Safely Reduce and Realign US Forces on the Korean Peninsula
BY: CLINT WORK 38 North, a webjournal that provides analysis and insights into North Korea
AUGUST 25, 2020 COMMENTARY

...The US force structure in South Korea was never meant to be permanent nor static. Its underlying mission has been consistent (i.e., to deter North Korean aggression, and in case of deterrence failure, to help defend South Korea). But the actual composition and alignment of US forces have changed notably over time, largely in response to force modernization and qualitative improvements in both US and ROK armed forces. History shows that what matters most is not the topline US troop number but the capability of the forces and how well they fit within the larger alliance architecture. Thus, troop reductions or realignments are not inherently beneficial or dangerous. What matters is the military logic and context of these changes and how they are implemented...

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https://www.38north.org/2020/08/cwork082520/

Even if one doesn't agree with the author's view, this commentary has some useful basic facts about the US force structure in South Korea, it's relationship to the South Korean forces, and deployment policy changes and objectives. It's a good summary of our military position in South Korea, and future changes that may occur.