ROK-US alliance must mature, not fracture

On July 4th, the United States celebrated its 249th Independence Day. A few weeks from now, on Aug. 15th, the Republic of Korea will mark the 77th anniversary of its founding. These national milestones offer more than just an opportunity for celebration — they are a moment to reflect on one of the most enduring and successful alliances in modern history: the ROK-U.S. alliance. The alliance, forged in the crucible of war and nurtured over decades, has been mutually beneficial. American sacrifice in the Korean War — more than 37,000 lives lost — ensured the survival of a free Korea. In turn, Korea stood alongside the United States in Vietnam, sending over 300,000 troops, with approximately 20,000 wounded and 5,000 killed. The 1953 Mutual Defense Treaty signed between Korea and the U.S. became the cornerstone of a security architecture that enabled Korea to rise from the ashes of war and become a democratic and economic success story. Let us be clear: this alliance is not a one-way street. Korea has benefitted enormously in terms of security and development, while the United StatesWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times