"US, Japan, and South Korea Strengthen Deterrence Plans Amid North Korean Threat"
South Korea and the United States have revised their bilateral security agreement, known as the Tailored Deterrence Strategy (TDS), to address the advancing nuclear and missile threats from North Korea. The updated agreement includes the use of strategic military assets, including nuclear forces, to defend allies. The two countries also agreed to boost joint drills and cooperation with Japan to better prepare for any potential North Korean attack. Recent changes in North Korean and Chinese capabilities have increased the risk of deterrence failure, according to a recent study. Despite global distractions, the US remains committed to its defense obligations in the Indo-Pacific region.