Singapore, May 30: South Korea has expressed serious concerns regarding the challenges posed by North Korea during the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-baek stated on Saturday that in light of changing security conditions and the increasing threats from North Korea, Seoul will focus on enhancing its defense capabilities while further strengthening its alliance with the United States.
During the defense conference, Ahn highlighted that North Korea’s growing military cooperation with Russia and its experiences from the Ukraine war are 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 escalating regional instability and have become a significant factor for global security.” He noted that the Republic of Korea is accelerating its alliance with the United States while also focusing on enhancing its own capabilities.
According to Ahn, the ‘Three-Axis Defense System,’ which includes missile defense (KAMD), the pre-emptive strike platform ‘Kill Chain,’ and the ‘Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation System,’ is being further strengthened.
The defense minister also mentioned that extended deterrence cooperation with the United States is being reinforced to leverage the full military capabilities of the U.S.
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, as “sustainable security is only possible through peace.” He also stated that South Korea is considering contributing to security efforts to ensure freedom of maritime routes under international law, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.