Seoul: The South Korean government has announced a 7.5% increase in its defense budget for 2026, setting it at 65.9 trillion won (US$44.8 billion). This increment is part of the nation's efforts to enhance its three-axis defense system and develop a state-of-the-art combat framework.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the National Assembly approved a total budget of 727.9 trillion won following an eleventh-hour consensus between opposing political factions. This budget is intended to boost economic and defense expenditures. Although the defense budget growth falls short of the 8.2% initially requested by the ministry, it remains the most substantial rise since 2019, which also saw an 8.2% increase.

In a statement, the ministry highlighted the government's and National Assembly's commitment to fortifying national security. This move is in response to threats posed by North Korea's nuclear and missile programs and the evolving global security landscape. The budget increase will focus on enhancing the country's capabilities for the transition of wartime operational control from the United States to South Korea, a goal set to be achieved during President Lee Jae Myung's tenure.

The budget will also aim to improve troop conditions and foster futuristic military capabilities, including the integration of artificial intelligence and drone technologies. Specifically, the allocation for the three-axis deterrence system-comprising the KAMD missile shield, Kill Chain preemptive strike platform, and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation system-will see a 21.3% increase, reaching 8.8 trillion won.

Additionally, the ministry plans to allocate 5.8 trillion won to defense research and development, representing a 19.4% increase from the previous year, as part of its strategy to bolster modern warfare abilities in areas such as space.

The increase comes amid South Korea's pursuit of self-reliant defense capabilities, while concurrently facing pressure from the United States to ramp up defense funding. A joint document from summit discussions between President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump indicates South Korea's intention to elevate its defense spending to 3.5% of its GDP, in alignment with legal stipulations, a move that has received U.S. approval.