Meaning: The quote you have provided seems to be a statement attributed to Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea. The statement suggests that Kim Jong-un believes that the presence of American troops in South Korea and Japan, totaling around 100,000, should continue indefinitely, even after the unification of the Korean peninsula.

It is important to note that the veracity of this quote cannot be confirmed without proper context and reliable sources. However, the sentiment expressed in the quote raises several interesting points about the geopolitics of the Korean peninsula and the broader East Asian region.

Firstly, the presence of American troops in South Korea and Japan has been a significant feature of the post-World War II security architecture in East Asia. The United States has maintained a military presence in these countries as part of its commitment to security alliances and as a deterrent against potential aggression from North Korea and other regional actors. The presence of American troops in these countries has also been a source of tension with North Korea, which has consistently viewed it as a provocation and a threat to its national security.

The suggestion that these American troops should remain in the region even after the unification of the Korean peninsula is noteworthy. It reflects a recognition of the strategic importance of the US military presence in East Asia beyond the specific context of the Korean division. It also raises questions about the potential role of the United States in a unified Korea and the broader implications for regional security dynamics.

From a South Korean perspective, the continued presence of American troops on the peninsula may be viewed as a stabilizing force, particularly in the context of a potential unification with the North. The presence of US forces could provide reassurance to South Korea and its allies, serving as a deterrent against any potential destabilizing actions by North Korea or other regional actors.

On the other hand, the idea of a perpetual American military presence in the region may also raise concerns about sovereignty and independence. Some voices in South Korea and Japan have called for a reevaluation of the security arrangements that have long been dominated by the presence of US forces. They argue that as mature and capable nations, South Korea and Japan should have greater autonomy in their security affairs and not be overly reliant on the United States.

Furthermore, the implications of such a statement for the prospects of Korean unification are significant. The idea that a unified Korea would still host a substantial US military presence speaks to the complexities and challenges involved in any potential reunification process. It suggests that even in a scenario of peace and reconciliation between the two Koreas, the interests and security concerns of external powers, particularly the United States, would continue to shape the regional security landscape.

In conclusion, while the specific origins and context of the quote you provided may be unclear, the sentiments it expresses raise important questions about the future of the American military presence in East Asia, the prospects for Korean unification, and the broader dynamics of regional security. The presence of American troops in South Korea and Japan has been a defining feature of the post-World War II order in East Asia, and any potential changes to this arrangement will have significant implications for the region as a whole.