Terminal High Altitude Area Defense, China, South Korea, State Auditor, Security, Yonhap News Agency from

US: Deployment of THAAD system in South Korea 'crystal clear'

South Korea's refusal to deploy US-made THAAD system sparks controversy

How does the US view South Korea's decision on the THAAD deployment?

The United States strongly supports South Korea's decision to deploy the United States' Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system. The THAAD system is a defensive missile system designed to intercept and destroy short- and medium-range ballistic missiles. The United States believes that the THAAD system will help to protect South Korea from the threat of North Korean ballistic missiles.

According to Yonhap News Agency, did China and South Korea raise security concerns and have a dialogue about THAAD system?

Yes. On November 26, 2022, the Yonhap News Agency reported that China and South Korea held a dialogue about the THAAD system. During the dialogue, China raised concerns about the THAAD system's impact on regional security. South Korea reaffirmed its commitment to deploying the THAAD system to protect itself from North Korean ballistic missiles. The two sides agreed to continue discussing the THAAD issue.

What is the State Auditor's Office's role in South Korea's THAAD deployment decision?

The State Auditor's Office is an independent government agency that audits the financial activities of the South Korean government. In 2017, the State Auditor's Office released a report that criticized the South Korean government's decision to deploy the THAAD system. The report found that the government had not properly considered the costs and benefits of the THAAD system, and that the government had not adequately consulted with the public about the decision.

How does South Korea view China and America in relation to THAAD?

South Korea maintains strong alliances with both China and the United States. However, China views the THAAD deployment as a threat to its security, while the United States sees the THAAD deployment as a necessary step to protect South Korea from North Korean ballistic missiles. South Korea has stated that it will continue to work with both China and the United States to manage the THAAD issue.