The U.S. Ground Combat Presence in Korea: In Defense of U.S. Interests or a Strategic Dinosaur
Abstract
This study attempts to determine if the U.S. ground combat presence in South Korea serves the best interests of the United States. It focuses on the balance of power between North and South Korea, and the effect which U.S. ground combat forces have on that balance. The thesis is introduced by a capsule history of the Korean Peninsula demonstrating the strategic importance of the peninsula and providing a background to U.S. involvement in Korea. The importance of the peninsula to Japan, the People's Republic of China, and the Soviet Union is explored as it relates to U.S. interests. The analysis reveals a delicate balance of power between the two Koreas. The U.S. ground combat forces are found to provide a deterrent effect which other U.S. forces or aid are unable to provide. The ground combat force demonstrates U.S. commitment to regional allies and plays a vital role in countering the Soviet threat in Northeast Asia. U.S. commitment to the security of the Republic of Korea results in a continuing ability to monitor and if necessary control Soviet naval activities in and around Soviet eastern ports. The thesis further concludes that the necessity of a U.S. ground combat presence in South Korea will be dictated by regional events rather than a specific timetable. Until some mechanism, be it international pressure or an internal leadership change, changes the current hard line North Korean stance, a U.S. ground combat presence will be required.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 09, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA138289
Entities
People
- Kelvin C. Marshment
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College