The United States said Wednesday it respects South Korean President Park Geun-Hye's decision to attend a massive military parade China plans to hold to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II.

"Participation in these events is the sovereign decision of each country. We respect the Republic of Korea's decision," a State Department spokesperson said on background in response to a Yonhap News Agency's request for comment.

The Chinese parade, set for Sept. 3, is seen as a show of force amid Beijing's increasingly assertive actions in territorial disputes with its neighbors.

In an apparent expression of unhappiness, the U.S. has decided to have its ambassador to China, Max Baucus, attend the ceremony, rather than sending a high-level official from Washington.

"Ambassador Baucus is the president's personal representative in China," the State Department official said. "His presence will signal the importance the United States attaches to honoring the sacrifices made by the United States and many Asian countries during the war and in promoting reconciliation and friendship among the countries who participated on all sides of the war." (Yonhap)