Bush: “Korea Requires a Strong Military Presence”

George W. Bush, president of the United States, announced on September 1, “There is an increasing need to place a strong military presence in South Korea in order to insure security on the Korean Peninsula.”

Prior to attending the Republican National Convention, President Bush appeared on NBC television. When asked the question: “Senator John McCain stated that the plan to reduce the U.S. military presence in Korea is by far the most dangerous thing to do after the end of the Korean War. What do you think of this statement?” Bush replied, “I do not agree with his statement,” also emphasizing, “I will refrain from doing anything to weaken our presence. I know that I have the obligation to keep a strong military presence in the Korean Peninsula not only for the benefit of South Korea but also for increased security of the region.”

On the same day, John Kerry, the Democratic presidential candidate, asserted, “North Korea and Iran are becoming more dangerous, and the pressure that has been placed on our forces as a result is increasing,” during an assembly with the Veterans Association held in Tennessee.

He said once he is elected president, he will increase the number of servicemen by 40,000 to lighten the burden on the military and will double the number of special forces trained to fight the war against terror.

Soon-Taek Kwon maypole@donga.com