Huanqiu Times reported the concerns from both Korean media and Chinese analysts regarding U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) Commander Xavier Brunson’s concept of “strategic flexibility” in deploying troops from South Korea to other regions.
Brunson, in his first press conference since taking office, highlighted the need for “strategic flexibility” – the ability to redeploy troops beyond the Korean Peninsula. His remarks came ahead of President Lee Jae-myung’s planned visit to Washington on August 25, which South Korean media saw as pressure on Seoul before the summit.
Brunson said the U.S.-ROK alliance must adapt to today’s security environment, a shift that requires South Korea to take greater responsibility against North Korea so U.S. troops can handle missions elsewhere. South Korean newspapers warned this shift could allow Washington to mobilize USFK forces in Taiwan Strait or South China Sea crises, marking a major departure from the forces’ traditional defensive role.
Chinese analysts cautioned that involving USFK in broader Asia-Pacific conflicts could expose South Korea to retaliation, making it difficult for Seoul to avoid being drawn in. They also warned that repeated U.S. emphasis on “strategic flexibility” risks destabilizing the region and undermining peace.
Source: Huanqiu Times, August 11, 2025
https://mil.huanqiu.com/article/4Ns6CSZhZjg