Seoul: Adm. Kim Kyung-ryul took office Wednesday as the new Navy chief, pledging to strengthen the operation's naval power by combining manned and unmanned combat capabilities. Kim was named Monday as the new Navy chief to replace his predecessor, Adm. Kang Dong-gil, who stepped down from his post over his alleged involvement in the botched martial law bid in late 2024.

According to Yonhap News Agency, in his inauguration address, Kim emphasized the importance of the Navy's mission to protect the lives, prosperity, and security of the nation through robust naval power. He outlined plans to enhance the readiness of naval forces by advancing manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) combat capabilities, which integrate unmanned systems like drones with manned forces under an AI-driven command system.

Kim, formerly the commander of the Republic of Korea Fleet, was promoted to the rank of admiral after parliamentary deliberation the previous day. His predecessor, Kang, resigned earlier this month following disciplinary measures by the defense ministry for allegedly supporting the establishment of a martial law command in December 2024.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back highlighted the link between maritime security and national interests, referencing recent crises in the Middle East and energy disruptions. He called for a strong maritime security posture to protect the nation globally. Ahn also stressed the importance of progressing with South Korea's nuclear-powered submarine program, a move supported by the United States as part of their bilateral security agreements from November.