Quote Originally Posted by Odin
I am curious as to what others think, is the U.S. military prescence in South Korea the reason the North is moving forward with relations with the south? I find the macro North Korean situation based on economic reality (from the tidbits of data I do get) as opposed to any real threat of invasion.
I don't see it that way. The south is the one who pursues these initiatives. Because they are the ones with the most to lose. Having started them in the 90's in some cases. The only real change is that the north now sees reasons for pursuing them too.


Quote Originally Posted by Odin
Does this mean a withdrawl of U.S. forces from the Korea's can now commence in ernest? I for one say yes, as South Korea is capable of conducting its own military affairs at this late stage of the game. While I dont dismiss the situation with North Korea as resolved, I do believe this is a shinning example of U.S. deployments that are hindering a potential diplomatic process.

Anyone?
The south needs that US troop insurance policy. They'd be fools to give it up. Now if the self-defense plans pan out they might consider going it alone. But that's 20 years off, much like their blue water navy.