“Any provocation from North Korea will result in severe consequences, with an immediate and decisive response lasting until the ...

Kim Yong Hyun was sworn in as the 50th Minister of National Defense.

His focus is on establishing a strong military driven by science and technology.

He is committed to advancing the extended deterrence capabilities of the ROK-U.S. Alliance.

He highlighted the need for comprehensive readiness for new types of warfare.

Kim commenced his official schedule with a teleconference with top military officers from all branches.

Kim Yong Hyun, newly appointed as the 50th Minister of National Defense, stressed the importance of "peace through strength" during his inauguration ceremony at the Defense Ministry in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on September 6.

Kim Yong Hyun was sworn in as the 50th Minister of National Defense on September 6.

During his inaugural speech at the farewell and inauguration ceremony at the Defense Ministry in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, Minister Kim declared, "Any provocation by North Korea will be met with an immediate, strong, and decisive response, leading to catastrophic consequences for the North Korean regime and its leadership. Their provocations will mark the regime's end."

He reinforced his resolve by stating, "To secure peace through strength, we will enhance the combat spirit of our soldiers, conduct realistic training, and strengthen combined ROK-U.S. exercises."

Pledging to uphold President Yoon Suk Yeol's leadership, Minister Kim outlined key priorities for building a powerful, honorable, and technology-driven military: (i) improving soldier welfare and compensation, (ii) maintaining a dominant defense posture, and (iii) advancing unmanned combat systems.

Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun (center) seen after paying tribute at the Memorial Tower in the Seoul National Cemetery in Dongjak-gu, Seoul, on September 6.

Minister Kim addressed the improvement of troop service conditions, stating, "Morale is the cornerstone of any military, and no force, regardless of its advanced weapons, can win battles if its morale is low."

He added, "I will focus on enhancing economic benefits, including salaries and allowances, as well as improving the food, clothing, and living conditions of our soldiers. We will also strengthen job security to ensure that these improvements are felt by the troops." Kim further noted, "I will swiftly implement measures to make military service a source of pride and the most fulfilling time in a soldier's life."

Regarding defense posture and capacity building, he said, "Our goal is to deter provocations so effectively that the enemy would not dare to make them again. We will also spearhead the development of extended deterrence capabilities within the ROK-U.S. Alliance, which has now advanced into a nuclear-based alliance." He emphasized that the military will be fully prepared for emerging warfare scenarios, including hybrid warfare, cyber warfare, space operations, and electronic warfare.

On September 6, Minister Kim Yong Hyun (center) held a teleconference with senior military officers in the combat control room of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, marking his first official duty following his inauguration.

Addressing the transition to unmanned combat systems, Minister Kim explained, "We aim to enhance combat power even with fewer troops by moving towards a military that is low-manpower, cost-efficient, and highly effective. Moreover, by developing a cutting-edge defense industry built on a science- and technology-driven military, we will support both the national economy and the livelihoods of our citizens."

In his first official action, Minister Kim led a teleconference with senior military officers from the combat control room of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He expressed appreciation for their hard work and underscored the need for a steadfast state of military readiness.

Minister Kim also emphasized, "The Armed Forces' mission and role are a sacred responsibility entrusted by the people. The military must be fully dedicated to defending the nation, upholding liberal democracy, and protecting the lives and property of its citizens."

Minister Kim called on the military, stating, "Let the enemy not dare challenge our overwhelming defense capabilities and posture. Should they provoke, respond swiftly, decisively, and relentlessly, ensuring they pay a severe price."

He also highlighted, "We must work together to improve the service conditions and compensation for our 500,000 dedicated soldiers, focusing on issues like inadequate housing, low salaries, and allowances."

Following the teleconference, Minister Kim informed reporters at the Defense Ministry, "We are considering increasing the salary raise rate for junior officers to double that of government employees next year."

The Defense Ministry plans to discuss with fiscal authorities a salary increase of 6% for second lieutenants, first lieutenants, staff sergeants, and sergeants first class, and a 5% increase for captains and master sergeants.

Prior to the inauguration ceremony, Minister Kim paid tribute at the Memorial Tower in Seoul National Cemetery, marking his role as the 50th Minister of National Defense, and pledged to carry out the mission and duties of the Armed Forces.

He laid a wreath, burned incense, and wrote in the visitors' register, "I will dedicate myself to national defense, safeguarding liberal democracy, and ensuring the safety of the people."

By Ah-Mi, Cho <[email protected]>

<Copyright ⓒ The Korea Defense Daily, All rights reserved>

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.