USFK commander underscores ‘strategic triangle’ linking South Korea, Japan, Philippines in ‘east-up’ map
In Seoul on November 17, US Forces Korea (USFK) commander General Xavier Brunson highlighted how South Korea, Japan and the Philippines form a “strategic triangle” that can boost regional security in the Indo‑Pacific.
Brunson explained his point using an “east‑up” map – one that places east at the top, instead of the usual north‑up layout. The new view shows South Korea in the center with Japan to the north and the Philippines to the south, threading them together into a clear triangle of cooperation.
“The triangle gives each country a specific edge,” Brunson said. “South Korea brings depth and proximity to the North, Japan adds advanced technology and naval power, and the Philippines controls critical southern sea lanes.”
He emphasized that this is no new alliance, but a practical way to coordinate the existing bilateral defense treaties. The combined posture, he noted, could deter aggression from North Korea and help contain the growing challenges from China and Russia.
“USFK forces in Korea already sit inside the bubble that would need to be defended if a crisis erupts,” Brunson said, pointing out how the forward‑deployed troops are closer to Tehran‑Iran’s theater than to the US mainland.
The idea of “strategic flexibility” has long been part of the South‑Korea‑US conversation, especially as both sides modernise their partnership amid rising tensions. In a recent press conference, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US is open to adjusting the mindset of USFK for regional contingencies.
Brunson called flexibility “the currency of readiness.” He argued that shifting perspectives, rather than moving forces, keeps America’s deterrence credible across the Indo‑Pacific.
North Korea has criticised the east‑up map, calling it an “invasion map” that supposedly shows US plans to invade Asia.
The USFK’s framing of the security triangle aims to strengthen coordination among South Korea, Japan and the Philippines, and reinforce a collective deterrent that reaches across the broader Indo‑Pacific arena.
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