In a joint statement, the US and South Korean air forces announced their decision to continue strengthening their joint drills against North Korea's nuclear and missile threats.
This came after they conducted a second joint air exercise for the week, despite a warning by North Korea that such exercises would worsen tensions.
Last year, North Korea conducted a record number of ballistic missile tests, raising concerns globally, particularly for its immediate neighbours.
At the same time, the South Korean foreign minister, Park Jin, met with her US counterpart, Antony Blinken, in Washington to reaffirm the two countries' commitment to strengthening "extended deterrence.
" This refers to the US military's ability to deter attacks on allies, particularly amid concerns over North Korea's increasing missile and nuclear capabilities.
"Any provocations by North Korea will be met with a firm and united response," warned Park Jin in her joint press conference with Antony Blinken.
Park Jin and Blinken's joint conference also highlighted the two countries' determination to maintain close ties and coordination in achieving genuine peace on the Korean Peninsula.
Blinken, on the one hand, stressed that the US and South Korea shared a commitment to the denuclearization of the peninsula.
In contrast, Park Jin, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of strengthening extended deterrence to support a robust combined defense posture.