US-South Korea Military Drills Scaled Back

story

AUG 8

Above: A South Korean tank during a live-fire drill with the U.S. Army in Pocheon, South Korea, on Feb. 10, 2025. Image copyright: SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg/Getty Images

story last updated AUG 8

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

The exercise postponement shows smart military planning that prioritizes troop safety during dangerous heat conditions. South Korea recorded its second-hottest July since 1973, and has suffered at least 20 heat-related deaths since May. Maintaining combat readiness without risking lives demonstrates responsible leadership.

NHK Stars and Stripes

Opposition narrative

The scaled-back drills reveal South Korea's desperate attempt to appease North Korea through meaningless gestures. Pyongyang has already rejected Seoul's overtures and won't be satisfied with minor scheduling changes. North Korea demands complete termination of US-South Korea exercises, not slight rescheduling.

NK News The Straits Times