Caption: the poster for the 2023 CSPS-Korea Annual Symposium on the topic of “The Challenges of New Technologies and the Future of the US-ROK Alliance”
Photo Credits: CSPS-Korea
Emerging technologies are rapidly transforming nations’ security landscape. The Center for Security Policy Studies-Korea (CSPS-Korea) organized a symposium to discuss this critical issue on May 19, 2023. The symposium brought together experts in the field of international security, military, and defense to discuss the challenges and opportunities of Critical and Emerging Technologies (CETs) for the US-ROK alliance. The discussions focused on how these technologies are changing the security concept and strategies. The symposium also aimed to explore these themes and identify ways to develop a future-oriented security relationship between the United States and South Korea.
Emerging technologies like Deepfake use falsified sounds and videos that are created with artificial intelligence (AI) to disseminate false information. Multiple online platforms with massive data have provided an ideal environment for disinformation campaigns. In this respect, the ROK-US alliance, in its 70th anniversary, is also exposed to security threats driven by disinformation campaigns. For instance, it could lead to conflict deriving from disinformation from North Korea.
During the symposium, the necessity of Cybersecurity cooperation was emphasized connecting to how the US and Korea should build strong infrastructure. Recently, President Yoon inaugurated the concept of Global Comprehensive Strategic Alliance broadening the issues of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) as a global issue beyond the Korean peninsula. The speakers also mentioned the importance of the joint statement of the US-ROK alliance in this aspect. One interesting question that led the discussion was which areas could be strengthened for the future of the US-ROK alliance.
In this regard, the 2023 CSPS-Korea Annual Symposium emphasized the need for proactive and collaborative approaches to address the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies. By working together, the US-ROK Alliance can leverage technological strengths to enhance security and promote regional stability.
After the symposium, The Voice of Mason Korea asked Wonjun (Jason) Lee (Global Affairs ‘24) who shared his insights that “as a Research Assistant at CSPS-K, despite the challenges faced during the preparation process, the guidance provided by Director Soyoung Kwon, alongside the collaborative teamwork of CSPS-K fellows and the dedication of senior fellows and volunteers, proved instrumental in bringing the symposium to fruition. The rewarding outcome of the event made all the efforts truly worthwhile.”
Emerging technologies will have a profound impact on society, and it is essential to explore ways to adapt to these changes and address potential challenges. The Spring 2023 Annual CSPS-Korea Symposium provided a valuable forum for experts to share their insights and ideas addressing the complex security challenges facing the US-ROK alliance. It would be encouraged to engage in further discussion and exploration of these topics to help shape a more secure future.
Written by Suemin Jeong| Staff Writer
Revised by Soram Hong|Managing Editor
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