On February 20, 2026, President Lee Jae-myung addressed the integrated commissioning ceremony for Army, Navy, and Air Force academies at Gyeryongdae, South Chungcheong Province. He stressed the necessity of transforming the Republic of Korea Armed Forces into a ‘smart elite military’ equipped with advanced technologies and autonomous defense capabilities. The policy aims to ensure that South Korea can independently safeguard its sovereignty and deter external threats. President Lee highlighted the government’s commitment to investing in cutting-edge weapon systems and fostering a strong sense of national self-reliance.
The policy directly impacts new military officers, with 558 newly commissioned officers and over 3,700 family members and guests attending the ceremony. The government intends to systematically nurture defense talent capable of leading future battlefields by integrating the training of Army, Navy, and Air Force academies. President Lee also called for the military to reflect on past mistakes and focus solely on serving the people, emphasizing the importance of a military loyal to its citizens. The event marked a significant step toward breaking down barriers between military branches and enhancing joint operations.
This integrated commissioning ceremony was the first of its kind in approximately nine years, since 2017. President Lee announced plans to further consolidate the academies to cultivate defense leaders for future warfare systematically. The government will continue to invest in advanced military technologies and prioritize the swift recovery of wartime operational control. These changes are designed to reinforce South Korea’s leadership in the ROK-U.S. combined defense posture and open a new era of autonomous national defense.
Frequently asked questions include the rationale behind integrating the commissioning ceremony and the government’s future plans for military education. The integration aims to strengthen jointness among the services and prepare officers for complex, technology-driven warfare. Another common question is how the policy will affect South Korea’s defense capabilities. The government asserts that advanced training and investment in new technologies will enhance the nation’s ability to defend itself independently and lead combined defense efforts.
Metaqsol opinion: The South Korean government’s move to integrate military commissioning ceremonies and prioritize a ‘smart elite military’ demonstrates a forward-looking approach to national defense. By investing in advanced technologies and consolidating officer training, the policy aims to enhance joint operations and autonomous defense capabilities. This strategy is expected to improve operational readiness and reinforce the principle of military service to the public. The emphasis on self-reliance and technological advancement aligns with current security needs and public expectations.