South Korean and U.S. officials struck an optimistic tone about the trajectory of their longstanding partnership during celebrations marking Korean National Day and Armed Forces Day in Washington. The event, held at the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium, offered both governments an opportunity to highlight the alliance as “model” and “forward-looking,” just one day after the release of a long-awaited joint fact sheet on security, trade, and broader cooperation.

South Korean Ambassador to the United States Kang Kyung-wha, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Michael DeSombre, and Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Christopher Mahoney were among the key figures in attendance.

Ambassador Kang emphasized the symbolism of the venue, noting that it was where the North Atlantic Treaty was signed in 1949. She described the U.S.–South Korea partnership as a “model alliance” that has supported stability and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula and far beyond for more than seven decades. She added that under the new administrations in Seoul and Washington, the two countries are advancing toward a comprehensive and future-oriented strategic alliance spanning security, economic cooperation, and advanced technology.

Kang also highlighted recent progress in bilateral trade ties, including the conclusion of a long-sought agreement on tariffs following high-level discussions earlier this year. She further underscored the global influence of Korean culture—music, food, and popular entertainment—as a powerful connector strengthening bonds between the nations.

Under Secretary Colby praised South Korea’s decision to raise defense spending to 3.5 percent of its GDP, calling the country a “model ally.” He stressed that the Trump administration values “partnerships over dependencies,” noting that South Korea is the first U.S. treaty ally outside NATO to meet the defense spending benchmark set at the Hague summit.

DeSombre lauded the relationship between President Lee Jae Myung and President Donald Trump, saying their engagement has propelled the alliance to “unprecedented heights.” He described the newly released joint fact sheet as proof of the partnership’s depth and the ambitious goals ahead.

General Mahoney reinforced that the alliance extends well beyond defense, characterizing it as a relationship grounded in shared values, cooperation, and a commitment to common purpose.