President Yoon Suk Yeol stated on August 18 that the transfer of wartime operational control must be completed within his term, following the government's original plan without delay. He emphasized the importance of self-reliant defense capabilities and the ROK-U.S. alliance, urging for accelerated progress on the nuclear submarine project.
During the first Ulchi National Security Council meeting and the 36th Cabinet meeting held at the Blue House, President Yoon remarked, "The global security environment is rapidly changing, and the nature of warfare is evolving into a hybrid form that combines conventional combat, terrorism, and cyberattacks."
He added, "We must ensure that there are no gaps in security threats across all sectors, including military, economic, and social. This Ulchi exercise should thoroughly assess and enhance our defense posture and the nation's overall crisis response capabilities."
President Yoon assessed that South Korea's military strength and defense industry capabilities have reached a world-class level. He noted, "Currently, South Korea is ranked fifth in global military power and is considered one of the top four in defense industry capabilities. Our defense spending is 1.4 times North Korea's annual GDP."
He stated, "In terms of weapon systems and force size, we are among the top in the world in our ability to defend ourselves, and it is not an exaggeration to say that we have an abundance of capabilities."
To further strengthen this defense capability, President Yoon outlined the need for operational capability enhancement and the cultivation of military talent.
He directed that to solidify defense capabilities, it is essential to establish a comprehensive system for enhancing operational capabilities and training personnel. He also called for reforms in military education systems to prepare for future warfare environments. He emphasized, "To adapt to future warfare, where the distinctions of the battlefield become meaningless, we must cultivate officers with integrated operational capabilities and ensure the establishment of the National Military Academy proceeds without disruption."
Regarding the ROK-U.S. alliance and self-defense, he clarified that they are mutually reinforcing. President Yoon stated, "A strong ROK-U.S. alliance and the enhancement of self-defense capabilities are both necessary and sufficient conditions for our security."
He concluded, "A solid alliance strengthens the foundation of our security, and we must enhance our own capabilities to increase the value and necessity of our alliance. I urge you to accelerate the nuclear submarine project, which symbolizes a more constructive and robust future for the ROK-U.S. alliance."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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