Kevin Rudd on the future of the US-ROK alliance Indo-Pacific security: Asia Society

NEW YORK, May 28, 2026 — In closing remarks at an Asia Society Policy Institute conference, both panels linked here—   • The U.S.-South Korea Partnership in an Era...      • How the U.S.-ROK Alliance Is Adapting to N...  —on the future of the U.S.-ROK alliance, Asia Society President and CEO Kevin Rudd reflects on the evolving security landscape across the Indo-Pacific. Rudd discusses the continuing threat posed by North Korea, China’s expanding strategic posture across East Asia, the future of AUKUS and advanced defense cooperation, and the growing role of South Korea in regional security. Drawing on his experience as Australia’s former ambassador to the United States and former prime minister, he also shares insights into Washington’s current view of the Korea-U.S. alliance and the future of multilateral partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. Topics include:

• The future of the U.S.-ROK alliance

• North Korea and regional security

• China’s military posture in East Asia

• AUKUS and advanced defense technologies

• Indo-Pacific strategy and multilateral cooperation

• South Korea’s growing defense and geopolitical role

This event was hosted by Asia Society Policy Institute in partnership with the Korea Foundation.