The Hankyoreh editorial addresses the recent military exercises conducted by US fighter jets stationed in South Korea, which involved maneuvers near China's air defense identification zone over the Yellow Sea. This operation took place without prior notification to the South Korean government, prompting concerns about the implications for Korea's sovereignty and military autonomy. The drills reportedly involved multiple F-16 jets taking off from Osan Air Base, underscoring the strategic positioning of US forces in the region.

The article emphasizes that the deployment of US military resources, particularly the 7th Air Force, may signify a shift towards a more aggressive stance against China, utilizing South Korean territory for such endeavors. The Hankyoreh calls on the South Korean government to take immediate action to prevent the US from using its bases in Korea as platforms for military operations directed at China without explicit consent. This revelation raises significant questions about the level of control and influence South Korea has regarding the military tactics employed by its ally, the United States.

Ultimately, this situation calls into question the delicate balance South Korea must maintain in its relationships with both the US and China, as it navigates the complex geopolitical landscape. As tensions escalate in the region, South Korea must establish clear institutional safeguards to protect its national interests and ensure that it is not unwittingly drawn into conflicts that compromise its sovereignty and security.