Ted, Its interesting........a month ago, the number was between 3k and 6k, and now its up to 12k.
The 3K number from before was the number of troops being transferred from Korea to Iraq. That number hasn't changed; in fact, it's part of the overall 12K that is being pulled out of Korea. Before, there was speculation over whether those being transferred from Korea to Iraq would return back to Korea or not. Now we know.
Why do you think it doesn't make us look weak?
First of all, the 37K presently in Korea is just a token force. They don't compare to the half million South Koreans on active duty, much less the million North Koreans near the DMZ. Removing a third of them isn't going to make much of a difference.
Secondly, the economic strength of the South speaks for itself, IMO. I think America's move is more of a statement of confidence in South Korea's ability to protect itself, especially since it is no longer a Third World nation, but now a First World nation capable of dictating its own foreign policy.
Third, also IMO, this shift is proof that America wants to move forward in Korea, instead of staying stuck in the Cold War mentality. In hindsight, that move should have taken place under Clinton back when relations between North and South were the warmest in decades, but I guess it's better late than never.
As an aside, I hope that Taiwan and Japan help fill the gap left by our withdrawal.
There are some interesting politics going on with that. Taiwan has it's problems with that small little nation to the west. And Japan has to fight off its post-WW2 mentality of being practically non-militaristic. There are genuine fears among lots and lots of Asians over Japan having any sort of military strength these days, considering what they did back in WW2. Heck, many Japanese themselves have to overcome the guilt and the shame from their imperialistic days, and considering Japanese culture, that's especially tough to do.
Tenchusatsu |
