The Ministry of National Defense announced plans to strengthen democratic and institutional control and reform military intelligence agencies to rebuild a ‘military for the people.’ It also aims to foster a smart and advanced military based on AI and cutting-edge science and technology, while advancing key issues such as the return of U.S. military bases in Korea, construction of nuclear-powered submarines, and the recovery of wartime operational control.
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-baek expressed deep remorse over the national chaos caused by the illegal declaration of martial law on December 3, and emphasized efforts to prevent recurrence through institutional reforms and education system improvements. Amendments to the Martial Law Act and revisions to the Military Service Basic Act are underway, and the reorganization of the Defense Security Command has been completed.
To enhance the Korea-specific three-axis system, the defense budget for next year has been increased by 21.3% to 8.8 trillion won. The ministry plans to deploy key assets such as military reconnaissance satellites, Aegis ships, and high-powered missiles. It also aims to cultivate 500,000 drone operators and expand unmanned military capabilities based on AI technologies.
Additional initiatives include military structural reforms, improved service conditions for soldiers, return of U.S. military bases, relocation of military airports, construction of nuclear-powered submarines, recovery of wartime operational control, and phased restoration of the September 19 military agreement. Specific timelines include the completion of the Daegu Air Base relocation by 2033 and the transfer of wartime operational control by 2026.