South Korea and U.S. to Start Annual Ulchi Freedom Shield Military Exercise

South Korea and the United States are set to commence their annual joint military exercise, Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS), from August 18 to August 28, 2025. This 11-day operation aims to enhance the combined defense capabilities of both nations in response to evolving threats from North Korea, including nuclear and missile attacks.

Approximately 18,000 South Korean troops will participate in the exercise, while the number of U.S. troops involved has not been disclosed. The drills will incorporate computer-simulated scenarios and field training exercises, integrating lessons from recent global conflicts such as the war in Ukraine and tensions between Israel and Iran. Notably, due to extreme heat conditions, 20 out of 40 planned field training events have been postponed to September. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff cited the need for a balanced, year-round defense posture and safety considerations for the delay.

North Korea, which views these exercises as invasion rehearsals, is expected to respond provocatively. Diplomatic efforts with Pyongyang have been stalled since 2019, with North Korea now prioritizing relations with Russia, including military support for its Ukraine campaign.

The postponement of certain drills is seen as an attempt by the South Korean government, under President Lee Jae Myung, to reduce tensions and revive dialogue with Pyongyang. However, experts express doubt that North Korea would see the move as conciliatory.

Ulchi Freedom Shield, formerly known as Ulchi-Focus Lens, has been conducted annually since 1976. The exercise is the world's largest computerized command and control implementation, involving tens of thousands of troops from both nations.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the UFS exercise underscores the commitment of South Korea and the United States to maintaining a robust defense posture while navigating the complexities of regional diplomacy and environmental challenges.