Klingner, Bruce

Abstract
South Korean President Park Geun-hye has pledged to respond decisively to any future North Korean provocation. A strike against South Korean maritime targets in the West Sea is the most likely attack scenario. After two North Korean attacks in 2010, South Korea redressed naval shortcomings and signed a joint counter-provocation contingency plan with Washington to enhance allied deterrence and defense capabilities. However, deficiencies remain that could put allied interests at risk during the next military conflict. South Korea needs to strengthen its anti-submarine warfare, amphibious, and C4ISR capabilities while concurrently developing capabilities to play a greater role in regional and global security. Although the primary responsibility lies with Seoul, the United States should reverse military budget cuts to fulfill its pledges to protect its critical ally. Washington should also work to improve bilateral and trilateral defense cooperation among South Korea, Japan, and the United States.
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