Tuesday, 18 August 2026 MUMBAI EDITION LIVE

S Korea Prez: No Intention to Attack N Korea

S Korea to boost defense, Seoul defends drills as defensive

Mumbai Alert · World Desk
Mumbai Alert · World Desk
World Desk · Mumbai Alert News · Tue, 18 August 2026 at 11:02 am
S Korea Prez: No Intention to Attack N Korea

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has stated that his country has no intention to attack North Korea. This statement comes after US President Trump instructed the Pentagon to reduce joint US-South Korea military drills.

President Lee emphasized the importance of strengthening South Korea's independent defense capabilities. He defended the annual civil-defense exercises, which take place alongside the joint US-South Korea military exercises, as purely defensive measures.

The reduction of joint military drills was announced by President Trump, who has been seeking to improve relations with North Korea. However, President Lee has made it clear that Seoul will continue to strengthen its own defense while maintaining its alliance with the US.

The joint US-South Korea military exercises have been a point of contention with North Korea, which views them as a threat to its security. Despite the reduction in joint drills, South Korea plans to continue with its own military exercises, which it sees as essential for its defense.

President Lee's statement is seen as an attempt to reassure North Korea that South Korea's military preparations are not aimed at attacking its neighbor. At the same time, Seoul is keen to maintain its alliance with the US, which provides a significant portion of its defense capabilities.

The situation on the Korean peninsula remains tense, with North Korea continuing to develop its nuclear and missile programs. The reduction in joint military drills is seen as a step towards easing tensions, but it remains to be seen whether it will lead to any significant breakthroughs in relations between the two Koreas.

In the meantime, South Korea will continue to focus on strengthening its own defense capabilities, while maintaining its alliance with the US. This approach is seen as a way to ensure the country's security, while also keeping the door open for dialogue with North Korea.

The development of South Korea's independent defense capabilities is a key part of its military strategy. The country has been investing heavily in its defense industry, with a focus on developing advanced technologies such as drones and cyber warfare capabilities.

As the situation on the Korean peninsula continues to evolve, South Korea will need to balance its military preparations with its diplomatic efforts. President Lee's statement is seen as an important step in this process, as it seeks to reassure North Korea that South Korea's intentions are purely defensive.

In conclusion, the reduction in joint US-South Korea military drills is a significant development in the region. South Korea's decision to continue strengthening its own defense capabilities, while maintaining its alliance with the US, is seen as a way to ensure the country's security, while also keeping the door open for dialogue with North Korea.

Frequently asked questions

Why did the US reduce joint military drills with South Korea?

The US reduced joint military drills with South Korea as part of an effort to improve relations with North Korea.

What is South Korea's stance on its military exercises?

South Korea defends its annual civil-defense exercises as purely defensive measures and plans to continue strengthening its own defense.

south koreanorth koreaus drillsmilitary exercises
X Facebook Telegram
Read the original report ↗

More in Geopolitics

Geopolitics

Aircraft Carriers Remain Crucial in Global Military Power

Aircraft carriers are vital for military power. The US and India operate them.

By Mumbai Alert · World Desk · 56 min ago

Geopolitics

India Warns Meta on Content Moderation

India warns Meta, seeks local sensitivity, and clear labeling of deepfakes.

By Mumbai Alert · World Desk · 1 hr ago

Geopolitics

Hafiz Saeed, Lakhvi to Face Trial 18 Years After 26/11

Trial to begin for 26/11 masterminds, Hafiz Saeed and Lakhvi. 18 years after attack.

By Mumbai Alert · World Desk · 1 hr ago

Geopolitics

China-Linked Cybercrime Mastermind Arrested in India

A China-linked cybercrime gang mastermind has been arrested, Rs 1,071 crore involved.

By Mumbai Alert · World Desk · 1 hr ago