The Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG) Joint U.S.-ROK military drills have wrapped up a day earlier than scheduled, amid sustained criticism from North Korea.

The largely computer simulated drills, which began on August 18, were set to run until August 29 but finished Thursday with military officials hailing their success.

“The Combined Forces Command (CFC) announced today that it has successfully completed its annual computer-assisted simulation exercise, Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG),” a press release issued by the CFC said.

“This year’s Ulchi Freedom Guardian exercise further strengthened our combined defense and enhanced the readiness of Republic of Korea and United States