Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke by phone today with Republic of Korea (ROK) Acting Minister of National Defense Kim Seon-ho to discuss their shared focus on ensuring the combined U.S.-ROK defense posture remains strong and ready to respond to any external provocations or threats.  Secretary Austin underscored that the U.S. commitment to the security of the ROK is ironclad. The Secretary and the Acting Minister discussed the readiness of the combined U.S.-ROK defense posture and ongoing work to enhance extended deterrence, modernize Alliance capabilities, and strengthen regional cooperation. They agreed to remain in close contact and emphasized their shared commitment to the democratic institutions and processes of the ROK and to ensuring communication among defense and military officials at all levels.