South Korea Seeks Self-Reliance After US Relocates Air Defense Assets

President Lee Jae Myung announced on March 10, 2026, that South Korea must prioritize self-reliant defense capabilities following the relocation of U.S. air defense assets to the Middle East. The move included the disassembly and transfer of all six launchers from the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery stationed in Seongju, North Gyeongsang Province.

This shift coincides with the United States' 2026 National Defense Strategy, which transitioned the priorities of U.S. Forces Korea from protecting South Korea to countering China. The U.S. government stated that South Korea is capable of taking primary responsibility for deterring North Korea. While President Lee acknowledged that South Korea expressed opposition to the transfer, he stated that the country cannot always dictate its own terms.

To mitigate potential security gaps and avoid dependence on others, President Lee announced an expedited supplementary budget to enhance national defense. He further established a primary objective to regain wartime operational control over Korean forces before the end of his presidential term. Lee maintained that the relocation would not obstruct deterrence strategies against North Korea, citing South Korea's overwhelming conventional military advantage.