South Korea’s Defence Minister, Ahn Gyu-back, emphasized the need for military reform to address security and demographic issues, such as North Korea’s nuclear threats and a declining population. He highlighted the importance of enhancing the country’s defense capabilities in the face of evolving security dynamics. Ahn stressed the significance of transitioning wartime operational control from the United States to South Korea by 2030.
Ahn’s remarks came during a seminar on defense innovation focused on building a resilient and technologically advanced military. The Defence Minister underscored the critical role of artificial intelligence technology in strengthening South Korea’s defense posture. He also emphasized the ministry’s commitment to finalizing a comprehensive plan for defense innovation by 2026.
During a recent visit to the Capital Defence Command in Seoul, Ahn inspected the military’s preparedness for various contingencies, including air defense and counterterrorism measures. He urged the command to prioritize its core mission and rebuild public confidence in the wake of past challenges. Additionally, Ahn visited the Joint Air Defence Operations Center to assess the air defense readiness following the relocation of the presidential office.
