Singapore, May 30: At the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore, South Korea expressed concern over the challenges posed by North Korea. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-baek stated on Saturday that amid changing security conditions and the rising threat from the North, Seoul will focus on strengthening its defense capabilities and reinforcing its alliance with the United States.
During the defense conference, Ahn highlighted that North Korea’s growing military cooperation with Russia, along with its experiences from the Ukraine war, is creating new challenges not only for the Korean Peninsula but for the entire Indo-Pacific region.
Ahn remarked, “North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs are increasing regional instability and have become a significant factor in global security.”
He noted, “The Republic of Korea is focusing on enhancing its capabilities while accelerating its alliance with the United States.”
According to Ahn, South Korea is strengthening its ‘Three-Axis Defense System,’ which includes missile defense (KAMD), the pre-emptive strike platform ‘Kill Chain,’ and the ‘Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation System.’
The defense minister also mentioned that extended deterrence cooperation with the U.S. is being reinforced to leverage the full military capabilities of America.
Additionally, Seoul is developing a “smart military” through AI-based technologies, drones, and anti-drone systems to address the challenges of modern warfare.
Ahn Gyu-baek emphasized that South Korea aims to keep open the possibilities for dialogue with North Korea, stating, “Sustainable security is only possible through peace.”
He also indicated that South Korea is considering contributing to security efforts to ensure freedom of maritime routes under international law, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.
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