Our security dilemma is that of the choice between two contradicting political decisions. On the one hand, we can continue to make a steadfast effort to further strengthen the Korea-US alliance relationship and combined defense posture—sustaining the existing US-guaranteed Korean security, despite the fact that this may result in a more heightened level of military tension on the Korean peninsula. On the other hand, we can make a cautious attempt to capitalize upon Chinese influence on North Korea—keeping it from military provocations against the South and encouraging it to engage in inter-Korean reconciliation, albeit a weakened Korea-US alliance. Considering the continuing divisions and conflicts in our domestic politics, the choice between US-guaranteed Korean security and China-led security is likely to become polarized, making it more difficult to place our security on national consensus. However, one thing very clear is that we should keep in mind our experience with North Korea over the past half a century. North Korea has been exploiting the peace initiatives toward South, mostly as a temporary expedient or as a disguise. No doubt, it is of paramount importance that our choice must guarantee the firmest foundation of the security of the Republic of Korea, at least, until the reunification of the two Koreas. In my view, South Korea needs to sustain the current bilateral military alliance with the U.S., while developing a multilateral network for regional security and stability through improved institutional mechanisms for enhancing security cooperation and economic interdependence among the countries in the region. Meanwhile, it should not be dismissed that our self-reliant deterrent capability vis-à-vis North is indispensable. Moreover, to be reminded is that taking a neutral stance among the big nations will only lead us to ‘a shrimp among whales’ situation. Instead, alliance is a better choice.