The Cyber Operation Command soldiers take a photo together in this May 19, 2023 file photo. Courtesy of the Ministry of National Defense

South Korea and the United States have conducted their first cyber security drills to bolster their joint posture against rising cyber threats, the defense ministry said Friday.

The Cyber Alliance drill, held from Jan. 15-26 at South Korea's Cyber Operation Command, focused on training agents from both nations with the skills to share information regarding hacking attempts and the cybersecurity response guide.

The ministry said the two countries will continue to expand cyber security exercises, professional training and technology exchanges to enhance their collaboration in the cyber domain, the ministry said.

Seoul and Washington have been exploring ways to counter North Korea's cryptocurrency theft and other illegal cyber activities aimed at financing its nuclear and missile development programs. (Yonhap)