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The US, South Korea, and Japan are set to conduct the 2026 Freedom Edge exercise in the waters southeast of Jeju from November 7 to 11. The Joint Chiefs of Staff stated that this exercise is an annual defensive training aimed at responding to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and preserving peace and stability in the region.
This exercise will focus on strengthening military cooperation among the three countries and enhancing their joint response capabilities for regional security. In particular, various military operations are expected to be included during the exercise, with military officials from each country participating to conduct training in an environment similar to real combat.
Meanwhile, the US and South Korea recently scaled back their regular military exercise, the 'Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS)', following directives from President Donald Trump. Attention is drawn to whether this Freedom Edge exercise can establish itself as an effective response to the threats posed by North Korea.