Preparation for Military Exercises of the USA and South Korea

• The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises are scheduled from September 18 to 28.
• Approximately 18,000 South Korean troops will participate in the exercises.
• The main focus will be on threats from North Korea's nuclear programs.

In September 2025, South Korea and the USA will conduct their annual large-scale military exercises under the name Ulchi Freedom Shield. These exercises are designed to enhance readiness against threats from North Korea. They will take place from September 18 to 28 and may provoke a negative reaction from Pyongyang, which considers the joint exercises a rehearsal for invasion.

About 18,000 South Korean troops will participate in the exercises. The joint drills will include computer simulations and field training. South Korea has repeatedly expressed concern over the breakdown of diplomatic ties between Washington and Seoul regarding its nuclear program and has centered its foreign policy on Russia.

Exercise leaders indicated that the threats posed by North Korea's nuclear and missile programs will be a primary focus of the training. The program will also consider lessons from recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and the conflict between Israel and Iran. The training will also address countering threats from unmanned aerial vehicles, GPS jamming, and cyberattacks.

It is noted that approximately half of the planned field training was postponed in the fall due to adverse weather conditions. Official sources from both countries have expressed concerns about potential reductions in the scale of training in connection with the new government of South Korea.

Tags: USA