Lee Jae-myung Pushes for Self-Reliant Defense, Calling USFK a Future Burden

In a recent YouTube Shorts discussion, former Justice Party lawmaker Kim Jong-dae argued that South Korea must move toward self-reliant defense, echoing comments by President Lee Jae-myung. Kim stated that while US Forces Korea (USFK) has historically been a security asset, it is becoming a burden due to changing US priorities and reduced contribution to North Korea deterrence. He criticized conservative warnings that USFK withdrawal would harm investment and lengthen military service, urging them to confront former President Trump instead. Kim stressed that self-reliant defense is essential for South Korea to become a middle power.