Seoul: The defense ministry is set to release its first defense policy paper in four years, according to ministry officials. This publication, slated for later this year, marks the first update since 2022.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the biennial defense white paper was last updated in 2022. Its subsequent publication was delayed following a failed martial law attempt by former President Yoon Suk Yeol in late 2024. Although a draft version of the 2024 defense policy paper was prepared, the formal release was postponed due to the political turmoil that ensued.

The new defense policy paper is anticipated by the end of the year. It is expected to draw significant attention, particularly regarding how South Korea will redefine its relationship with North Korea and potentially adjust its alliance with the United States. The description of North Korea has historically been a cornerstone of South Korea's defense policy. In the 2022 white paper, the defense ministry characterized the North Korean regime and its military as "our enemy."