Global Security Newswire

South Korea yesterday disputed the claim made in a new report from the United States that it was considering taking part in a U.S.-led ballistic missile defense system, the Chosun Illbo reported (see GSN, Dec. 2, 2009).

The U.S. Defense Department's 2010 Ballistic Missile Defense Review states that South Korea "has indicated interest in acquiring a missile defense capability that includes land- and sea-based systems, early warning radars and a command and control system."

"The United States and (South Korea) are working to define possible future BMD requirements," the report states, adding that Washington is hopeful of building on existing joint missile defense projects with Seoul.

The report's assertions were rejected by South Korean military officials who said that there has been no official proposal on the matter and that Seoul has not communicated to Washington an interest in such collaboration.

"Whether to participate in the missile defense system is a matter that needs comprehensive consideration of the security situation on the Korean Peninsula and worldwide," South Korean Defense Ministry spokesman Won Tae-jae said (Chosun Ilbo, Feb. 4).