Former US Ambassador Calls for Expanded Security Cooperation Beyond Military Defense

At the Jeju Forum on June 24, 2026, former U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Harry Harris emphasized that traditional military defense is insufficient in today's fragmented international landscape. He advocated for a broader approach to security that includes economic, technological, and cyber resilience aspects. Harris highlighted the evolving nature of the international order, pointing to significant challenges posed by China and North Korea. He described China as a long-term geopolitical threat, while warning that North Korea's nuclear ambitions remain a persistent danger. Harris argued that the Seoul-Washington alliance must evolve to prioritize economic and technological cooperation alongside military partnerships. The forum aims to explore enhanced global cooperation amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Key Points: • Harry Harris advocates for a broader security approach beyond military defense. • China and North Korea are identified as significant geopolitical challenges. • The Seoul-Washington alliance needs to focus on economic and technological cooperation.