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South Korea: no delay for THAAD missile deployment, despite Beijing’s objections
China has fiercely opposed the plan, claiming the system poses threats to its security interests
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Acting South Korean President Hwang Kyo-ahn said on Monday the deployment of a US anti-missile defence system can not be delayed in the face of a growing North Korean nuclear missile threat and despite Beijing’s hostility to the move.
South Korea and the United States say the deployment of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system is designed to protect against North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic capabilities.
But China says THAAD’s powerful radar could penetrate its own territory, leading to calls from some South Korean opposition leaders to delay or cancel its deployment.
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“(North Korea) has been expanding its nuclear capabilities and developing the technology to create nuclear weapons. They are also miniaturising nuclear weapons,” Hwang said.
“Right now is not the time to talk to try to resolve North Korea’s nuclear issues.”
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