Final Decision by the U.S. and South Korea on Installing Missile Defense System

Seoul says South Korea and the United States have made a final decision on the installation of the advanced THAAD missile defense system. Beijing is one of the opponents and critics of placing this system near its borders. The South Korean Ministry of Defense stated on July 9 that the final decision for the placement of the THAAD shield has been made, with the aim of strengthening the allies' capabilities against the increasing nuclear threats from North Korea. According to the official South Korean news agency, this decision was made after five months of negotiations between Seoul and Washington. The U.S. Pacific Command has also confirmed that the final decision to place this system has been made alongside North Korea. Initial negotiations began shortly after North Korea conducted long-range missile tests last winter. In July, North Korea also tested two long-range missiles, which are believed to aim at achieving intercontinental missile technology. These launches follow the fourth nuclear military test conducted by the country. The North Korean leader has promised that his country will soon test a nuclear warhead and a ballistic missile capable of carrying this warhead. These events have led to extensive sanctions against Pyongyang. Beijing, North Korea's main supporter, has supported UN Security Council sanctions but opposes the placement of the missile shield in South Korea, near its territory. China reacted shortly after the news of the final decision by the two countries was published. The Chinese Foreign Ministry stated that this issue 'seriously harms the strategic security interests of countries in the region, including China.' Beijing has 'strongly' called for the suspension of the missile defense shield installation. It is reported that China is concerned that the radars of this advanced system are capable of monitoring its territory. South Korea says its and the U.S. evaluators are examining various locations to determine the best site for the installation of this system. The THAAD missile defense system is a shield against ballistic missiles, with each unit costing over $750 million. This system is capable of intercepting short-range or medium-range ballistic missiles in the final phase of launch. South Korea has been seeking information about this system since 2013.