South Korea began an expanded version of its annual Hoguk Exercises last Thursday, with over 240,000 troops from all branches of the military as well as police officers and other government officials. In addition, approximately 500 U.S. troops are also participating in the exercises.

In a statement, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff said,

“This year’s exercise expanded in size in a bid to foster joint combat capabilities to prepare for provocations by North Korea and an all-out war, considering the recent security situations.”

The beginning of the annual Hoguk Exercises also means the beginning of the annual North