By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

The U.S. ambassador to South Korea and former and current commanders of U.S. forces in South Korea emphasized the steadfastness of the U.S.-ROK alliance in their New Year's Day speeches, pledging cooperation to strengthen security in East Asia, the VOA reported. 

The leaders of Japan and Taiwan also pledged to strengthen their defense forces to counter the threat posed by North Korea, signaling their determination to face challenges from authoritarian states. 

In his New Year's address, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Korea Philip Goldberg emphasized that the U.S.-ROK alliance remains strong despite the difficult circumstances facing Korea in December 2024, according to the VOA report.

“It is a great personal honor to conclude my public service in South Korea as I prepare to leave office in early January,” Goldberg said in his New Year's message to the US-ROK Alliance Foundation. ”My contributions to the US-ROK Alliance, a beacon of peace, freedom, and democratic values around the world, have a special meaning.”

ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Commander Xavier Brunson said, “May we resolve this year to strengthen our alliance, protect our homelands and highlight our ironclad commitment in order to provide great peace and prosperity for all.”

General Scaparrotti, the Chairman of the U.S. Veterans Association in Korea, said in his New Year address, “What we do matters during good times and times of challenges. During these challenging times in Korea, KCVA stands with the Korean people as they navigate and chart their course for a stronger democracy.”

James David Thurman, former ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Commander, said, “For decades, our partnership has stood as a testament to shared values, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to peace and security. In 2025, we look forward to deepening our cooperation and enhancing our collective defense capabilities. May our alliance continue to be a beacon of stability in the region and a force for good in the world.”

Japanese Prime Minster Shigeru Ishiba said in his New Year speech, “First, we will address issues in diplomacy and security. In light of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, North Korea’s repeated missile launches, and other challenges, the international state of affairs surrounding Japan is severe and complex. Against this backdrop, we will protect Japan’s interests by taking diplomacy and defense as two sides of the same coin.”

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said in his 2025 address, “Authoritarian countries such as China, Russia, North Korea and Iran are still collaborating to threaten the international order that is based on rules. This has severely influenced the Indo-Pacific region and the world’s peace and stability.”

President Lai reiterated Taiwan's commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities and standing with the international community in preparation for a time of peace, the VOA reported.