Seoul: South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back on Saturday highlighted Seoul's drive to strengthen its own defense capabilities while deepening its alliance with the United States, amid evolving North Korean threats and uncertainties from Middle East tensions.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn, speaking at a defense forum in Singapore, emphasized the North's closer alignment with Russia and its growing combat experience from the war in Ukraine as new threats to security not only on the Korean Peninsula but also in the broader Indo-Pacific region. He pointed out that North Korea's military buildup and advancement of nuclear and missile capabilities are adding to instability across the entire region.
Ahn stated that South Korea, officially known as the Republic of Korea, is committed to strengthening self-reliant defense capabilities while enhancing its alliance with the United States. South Korea's military is advancing its three-axis defense system and strengthening U.S. extended deterrence, which includes the KAMD missile shield system, the Kill Chain preemptive strike platform, and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation system. Extended deterrence involves the U.S. commitment to defending its allies using a full range of military capabilities, including nuclear weapons.
He also mentioned South Korea's efforts to adapt to the changing warfare paradigm by building a "smart military" with artificial intelligence-based systems and drone and anti-drone defense systems. Through these initiatives, South Korea aims to take a more leading role in the defense of the Korean Peninsula.
In addition, Ahn reaffirmed Seoul's dedication to dialogue with Pyongyang, stating that the most reliable security comes with peace that does not require war. While maintaining robust deterrence against North Korean threats, South Korea will pursue peaceful coexistence through dialogue between the two Koreas.
Ahn also reiterated South Korea's commitment to ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz, which remains a critical issue amid the U.S.-Iran tensions. He highlighted the importance of guaranteeing freedom of navigation on key sea lanes in accordance with international law and mentioned that South Korea is actively reviewing practical measures to contribute to these efforts.