Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung pledged on Wednesday to develop a "strong, self-reliant" military as South Korea navigates a changing security landscape, emphasizing the nation's military capabilities and defense industry.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee made these remarks during a speech commemorating the 77th Armed Forces Day at the Gyeryongdae military headquarters. He underscored the necessity for South Korea to move toward a self-reliant defense system, rooted in national pride and military strength, to address evolving security challenges effectively. Lee highlighted South Korea's global standing, noting its position as the world's fifth-strongest military, with defense spending exceeding North Korea's GDP by 1.4 times.
A key component of Lee's security strategy involves reclaiming wartime operational control (OPCON) from the United States, a legacy arrangement from the 1950-53 Korean War. South Korea aims to regain this control and establish a robust joint defense posture with the U.S. once the transition is complete. This move, Lee asserted, will enhance peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and contribute to regional security and prosperity.
The historical context of OPCON dates back to when South Korea transferred control of its forces to the U.S.-led U.N. Command during the Korean War, later passing to the Combined Forces Command in 1978. South Korea resumed peacetime OPCON in 1994, while wartime control remained with the U.S. Recent discussions between defense officials have focused on Seoul's capability to lead combined forces and bolster strike and air defense capabilities, essential for the successful transfer amid regional security dynamics.
Addressing the credibility of South Korea's defense posture, Lee reiterated the nation's military prowess and economic investment in defense. He emphasized the strong alliances with value-sharing countries and the reliable nuclear deterrent established through the ROK-U.S. partnership, dismissing any doubts about national defense capabilities.
Looking ahead, Lee outlined plans to transform the military into "professional, smart, elite forces" to counter future battlefield threats. The government intends to allocate 66.3 trillion won (US$47.6 billion) for defense in 2026, marking an 8.2 percent increase from the current year, with a focus on advancements in artificial intelligence, drones, and robotics. Lee also promised to enhance support for the defense industry, recognizing its strategic and economic significance, while improving conditions and compensation for service members.
In his inaugural attendance at the Armed Forces Day ceremony since assuming office in June, Lee addressed the need to rebuild public trust in the military. He criticized some commanders' involvement in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law attempt last December, vowing to eliminate illegal martial law remnants and fortify the institutional framework to ensure the military's constitutional and public duty.
President Lee called on the military to commit to safeguarding the nation and its citizens with pride, emphasizing the importance of regaining public trust and fulfilling their responsibilities without directing force against the people.