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USFK Commander Javier Brunson recently emphasized the strategic value of the Korean Peninsula by comparing it to a 'dagger' aimed at China during a meeting with members of the Korean American Committee. Commander Brunson explained South Korea's geopolitical position using an 'East-Up' map that illustrates Korea, China, Japan, and the western Pacific at a glance, centered around Camp Humphreys, the USFK headquarters in Pyeongtaek.
He highlighted the strategic location of the Korean Peninsula between the Chinese mainland and the western Pacific by pointing out the distances marked on the map, such as '255 km to Pyongyang' and '985 km to Beijing.' He mentioned the resilience of South Korea and the importance of the ROK-US alliance, stating that the mutual defense treaty forms the cornerstone of peace and stability. Additionally, he noted the industrial sustainability of South Korea's defense industry and the US military's equipment maintenance and supply capabilities.
Commander Brunson has previously described the Korean Peninsula in unique ways, including referring to it as a 'fixed aircraft carrier' last year. He reiterated the importance of viewing the Korean Peninsula from China's perspective, adding that South Korea's strategic value can be interpreted in terms of its mission to deter North Korea and its significance in the Indo-Pacific context.