Gen. Xavier Brunson, commander of the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK), stated on May 27 that “everything is on the table,” including potential reductions in USFK troop levels, amid evolving strategic demands. Speaking at a virtual forum hosted by the Institute for Corean-American Studies (ICAS) in Washington, D.C., Brunson framed the current period as an “interwar” era, stressing the importance of preparing for future conflict.
His comments followed a recent Wall Street Journal report that the U.S. Department of Defense is considering reducing the number of troops stationed in South Korea by approximately 4,500 from the current 28,500. When asked about the report, Brunson clarified that he had received no such directive from the Joint Chiefs of Staff and stated that no one had mentioned such a move to him directly.
Emphasis on Strategic Flexibility
Although he denied knowledge of any specific plans to cut troop levels, Brunson repeatedly emphasized the need for “strategic flexibility.” He explained that such flexibility means being able to deploy forces to other areas to ensure peace through strength.
“We are in an interwar period, similar to the time between World War I and World War II,” he said. “This is the time for nations and militaries to prepare for modern operational realities.”
Brunson added, “That’s why I believe everything should be open for discussion.” Brunson also revisited a controversial metaphor he introduced earlier this month—describing South Korea as a “lighted aircraft carrier” in Northeast Asia. He emphasized that the country’s geography gives it strategic advantage, allowing the U.S. to monitor and potentially deter military movements by China and Russia.
Korea as a Strategic Aircraft Carrier
“If you overlay an aircraft carrier on a map of Korea, you can see how it controls access in the East Sea and the Yellow Sea,” he said. “There is no greater projection of military power than a stationary aircraft carrier.”
He noted that USFK remains the only forward-deployed U.S. military command on the Asian mainland located within 400 to 600 kilometers of Beijing, underlining the force’s proximity to potential flashpoints and its strategic value in any future regional conflict.
While Brunson avoided making predictions about future military conflicts, his comments reflected the U.S. military’s growing focus on readiness amid tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
BY LEE YUJEONG [uuu@joongang.co.kr]
