An Kyoo-baek, South Korea's Minister of National Defense, announced plans to pursue a security strategy that strengthens the US-South Korea alliance while enhancing the country's self-defense capabilities in response to North Korea's nuclear and missile threats and deepening military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.
According to Yonhap News, An made these remarks during a speech at the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 30, 2026, addressing the theme of "Regional Security Challenges and South Korea's Strategic Response."
He highlighted the advancement of North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities and its hostile stance toward South Korea, stating, "The situation on the Korean Peninsula is a major variable in global security." He emphasized the need to maintain a robust US-South Korea combined defense posture while actively pursuing the enhancement of South Korea's independent defense capabilities for the peninsula.
To counter the North Korean threat, An outlined plans to enhance the country's three-axis defense system and deepen cooperation with the U.S. on extended deterrence. He also mentioned accelerating the development of AI-based detection and strike systems, combined manned and unmanned combat systems, and strengthening cyber and space capabilities.
An stressed the importance of international security cooperation, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz. He stated, "We recognize the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation based on international law" and noted that South Korea is reviewing realistic ways to contribute to international efforts for the safety of the strait.
He added, "Maintaining stability on the Korean Peninsula is directly linked to global peace," and expressed a commitment to maintaining strong deterrence while pursuing a sustainable peace coexistence system through dialogue between the two Koreas.
In a separate conversation with reporters, An addressed the recent controversy surrounding comments made by the U.S. Forces Korea commander, who referred to South Korea as a "dagger" against China. He stated, "I communicate regularly with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, so I do not consider it a significant issue."
An also praised Austin's positive assessment of South Korea's nuclear-powered submarines and the transition of wartime operational control, calling it a meaningful statement that reflects trust in the alliance.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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