Do the Ties Still Bind?

The United States and South Korea enjoy many benefits from close security cooperation but the relationship, although not currently endangered, is shifting. Although Korea is assuming more military responsibilities, action is needed to address Korea's desire for a more equal partnership. Even if the United States makes an effort to give Koreans a greater sense of ownership, Korea itself must act like an equal partner if it wants to be treated as one. It should make renewed efforts to reaffirm the value of the alliance and the importance of the U.S. military presence in its country.