Seoul: Main opposition leader Jang Dong-hyeok vowed Monday to take all possible measures to stop the government's move to integrate the academies of three military branches. Rep. Jang of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) made the remarks during a forum at the National Assembly, saying the plan to integrate the Army, Navy, and Air Force academies will ultimately weaken the country's defense.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Jang emphasized that the initiative to consolidate these institutions under President Lee Jae Myung's term is an endeavor that should be opposed, as it would require more than a decade to execute properly. Stressing the gravity of the situation, he declared that his party would "use all available means" to obstruct the plan. Jang articulated his belief that the integration is aimed at degrading the Republic of Korea's military strength.

Jang's opposition to the integration plan was further highlighted during his visit to the Air Force Academy in Cheongju later in the day, where he reiterated his stance. He expressed his frustration over the handling of discussions on the matter, emphasizing the direct implications of such integration on national security and sovereignty.

A former Air Force officer and drill instructor, Jang shared his mixed emotions about visiting the academy after more than three decades, lamenting the ongoing dispute over the proposed integration.

The defense ministry, in July, announced its intention to establish an integrated military academy at Jaundae in Daejeon, stirring significant opposition from alumni associations and opposition parties. These groups have voiced concerns about the potential loss of specialized skills and the diminishing competitiveness of the individual military branches.