Kang Shin-cheol, the newly appointed Minister of National Defense, presided over a key military command meeting on September 22, emphasizing that "a firm response to enemy provocations is the minister's order."
During the meeting held at the Joint Chiefs of Staff Operations Command, Minister Kang stressed the importance of military readiness and urged a focus on rigorous training to ensure victory in competition.
Attendees included Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Jin Young-seung, Army Chief of Staff Kim Kyu-ha, Navy Chief of Staff Kim Kyung-ryul, Air Force Chief of Staff Son Seok-rak, U.S.-South Korea Combined Forces Deputy Commander Kim Sung-min, and Marine Corps Commandant Joo Il-seok, along with other key officials from the Ministry of National Defense and the military.
Minister Kang expressed deep condolences to the soldiers injured by explosives, believed to be landmines, during a recent operation to clear search routes in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
He also assured that the government would take full responsibility for the treatment and recovery of the injured soldiers and their families. Regarding the incident, he emphasized the need to keep all possibilities open and thoroughly investigate the cause to implement necessary measures.
In addition to military readiness, Minister Kang urged that every soldier should strive for personal success, fostering growth in the value of all members. He called for a reduction in unnecessary tasks and the establishment of a "warrior culture" based on mutual respect, where individuals can also triumph over their own challenges.
He stated, "Even in the face of difficulties and resistance, I will lead the military to victory."
Before the command meeting, Minister Kang spoke with reporters about the North Korean military's placement of landmines south of the Military Demarcation Line (MDL), stating, "The fortification of the border must cease," and added that he would investigate the incident thoroughly, leaving no possibilities excluded, and respond as necessary.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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