West Sea developments prompted backing for Korean nuclear sub, says acting US envoy

Acting U.S. Ambassador to Korea Kevin Kim said Thursday that unfolding events in the West Sea illustrate why the allies are moving to modernize their security alliance, a plan that includes Korea’s first nuclear-powered submarine. Speaking at a forum in Seoul, Kim stressed that Seoul and Washington must work together to address evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, calling the Asian nation "a model ally willing to invest in its own defense." "Look no further than what has happened in the Yellow Sea (West Sea) recently. That is why President Trump and President Lee agreed to modernize the U.S.-ROK alliance, increase Korea’s defense spending and seek new capabilities, such as nuclear-powered submarines, to meet that challenge," Kim said in his keynote speech. ROK stands for the Republic of Korea, Korea's official name. Although Kim did not elaborate on recent developments in the West Sea, China has been installing artificial structures in the area. Beijing says the facilities support fishing activities, but critics see them as part of an effort to expand maritime soWeiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times Weiter zum vollständigen Artikel bei Korea Times