Kim Yo-jong, the Deputy Director of the Workers' Party of Korea, stated on August 20 that Seoul's reduced participation in the U.S.-South Korea joint exercise, 'Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS),' reflects its unfortunate position of being unable to engage in the war games it once enjoyed. She particularly directed harsh remarks at President Lee Jae-myung.
In a statement released through the Korean Central News Agency, Kim said, "The fate of a puppet army that has entrusted its command authority to its master is to be unable to voice any objections, even as U.S. forces follow unilateral orders from their commander-in-chief without any coordination between the two sides."
She further criticized, "The situation in South Korea, which has become unable to engage in the 'war games' it wanted most, vividly illustrates the master-servant relationship of the 'Korea-U.S. blood alliance' they boast about."
Additionally, Kim accused President Lee of hypocrisy, saying, "While he flatters Trump by expressing respect for his 'decision to reduce exercises' and calling it a 'difficult decision,' he turns around and talks about 'self-defense' and 'independent military capabilities' in preparation for the 'worst-case scenario,' revealing the contradictory and anxious psychology of South Korea."
She emphasized, "The reality that U.S. security support is no longer free is something the world is witnessing. To win the favor of a heartless master, one might have to offer up everything they have."
Kim also suggested, "Perhaps it would be better to take this opportunity to thoroughly learn about one’s subservient position and seek answers for survival. It is time for the 'puppet' to recognize its fated position of having nowhere to go."
Meanwhile, North Korea launched a ballistic missile on the eve of the UFS's conclusion, coinciding with President Donald Trump's proposal for dialogue with Kim Jong-un.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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