Sport: Football
Current Career: Retired
Former Career: Consultancy in National Security Affairs
William R. (Bill) McKinney, during a distinguished U.S. Army career spanning 30 years coupled with his 20-year civilian career, established himself as a national security expert on Northeast Asia with focus on the Korean Peninsula. He has been a valuable resource for insights into Asia for the U.S. government, U.S. businesses, and international organizations.
Colonel McKinney capped his 30-year career, which included 15 years in Korea, as the Defense and Army Attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul from 1990 to 1996. Prior to this, he served as Chief of the U.S. Military Liaison Office to the Korean Defense Ministry; as Chief of the Far East Branch in the Political Military Division of the Army Headquarters at the Pentagon; and as the Political-Military Advisor to the Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the State Department. As an infantry officer he was assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division, 101st Airborne Division, and 25th Infantry Division.
During his military service, including combat in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division, Colonel McKinney received the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars including one for Valor, the Army Legion of Merit, the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge and other decorations.
As an independent consultant in international relations since his retirement from Federal Service in May 2016, Mr. McKinney has provided advice and assistance on Korean affairs to numerous clients, both in and out of the U.S. Government. He has also authored/co-authored articles on Korea for 38 North, the National Interest magazine, and the Pacific Forum. Read more.