Abstract
From Covid-19 to the war in Ukraine, recent shifts in the global strategic landscape have presented new challenges for the U.S.-ROK (Republic of Korea) alliance while reinforcing its importance as a foundation for regional peace and stability. Within this rapidly changing environment, North Korea has found new incentives and opportunities to accelerate its missile testing and nuclear weapons development. To manage these challenges, the United States and South Korea need to reexamine traditional approaches to North Korea policy and take steps to increase the credibility of U.S. extended deterrence. The recommendations below, based on a CSIS commission led by President & CEO John Hamre and CSIS Trustee Joseph Nye, present critical, actionable items that will help to ensure that the U.S.-ROK alliance navigates this shifting landscape from a position of strength.