Full coverage: THAAD Deployment in South Korea

South Korean Congressman Kim Young Ho has said the government’s decision lacks consideration. He also said over half of his colleagues from the main opposition Minjoo party are opposing the decision and thinking the deployment should be reviewed.  

Kim said, “In dealing with such a significant issue such as the deployment of the THAAD, the government did not actively communicate with neighboring countries or even South Korean citizens.

“I think there is a big problem in the procedure. The decision is mainly made by the Defense Ministry, not the Foreign Ministry. It has totally not considered the most important national diplomatic strategy.”

Kim explained the deployment involves the country’s national security and defenses against nuclear attacks, and diplomatic strategies, so the THAAD system cannot be brought in South Korea just as a tactical weapon.

He added the only way to solve the DPRK nuclear issue is dialogue, which also needs China’s help. But he said the deployment of the THAAD system could cause a rift with China. The congressman called on the leaders of China and South Korea to talk and find solutions together.