Kang Shin-cheol, the newly appointed Minister of National Defense, stated in his inaugural speech on September 22 that "victory will become our strategy and our policy," adding that "defense reform for victory will be implemented."
During the ceremony held at the Ministry of National Defense, Kang defined military personnel and defense members as a 'warrior community,' emphasizing the establishment of values to uphold the constitution, enhancing joint operations, and building military capabilities for future warfare.
"We have been called to protect the constitution and defend the Republic of Korea," Kang said, noting that the constitution contains values that the warrior community must uphold. He urged, "We must become warriors of the Republic of Korea who can defeat the enemy on land, at sea, in the air, and in all domains."
Kang explained that the meaning of victory lies in pursuing national interests and expanding strategic options. He emphasized the need to secure deep strategic depth to increase choices while limiting opportunities for adversaries and threats, thereby supporting the achievement of national policies and goals.
As tasks for this mission, he proposed establishing the concept of a warrior community, building unit structures that demonstrate jointness, and creating a continuous training system. Kang stressed the importance of fostering a culture that enables ongoing training.
He also highlighted the significance of the philosophy and culture of soldiers in conducting warfare amid advancements in cutting-edge science and technology. "While advanced technology makes it easier for soldiers to conduct warfare, it does not mean that soldiers are fighting better or that warfare has become easier," he said, noting that the essence of war has not changed.
Kang promised to cultivate a philosophy and culture among warriors that prepares them for future warfare, starting from their initial military training and throughout their service. He also committed to boosting morale and establishing a welfare system for the defense family.
Regarding military capability development, he emphasized deterrence based on overwhelming capability. Kang stated, "Our strong warriors must be able to deploy anywhere, observe anywhere, and deter the enemy with overwhelming capability to win in competition," pledging to develop and operationalize the necessary weapon systems.
He added, "When that happens, we can achieve victory without fighting, and we can achieve complete victory," asserting that they will not only predict the future but also shape it as desired. He urged soldiers to be fierce, relentless, and lethal to the enemy while being beloved warriors of the people, emphasizing a warrior community for the people, by the people, and of the people.
Meanwhile, Ahn Gyu-baek, in his farewell address, stated, "I am stepping down after fulfilling my historic duty as the first civilian Minister of National Defense in 64 years, completing the end of civil unrest and rebuilding the people's military."
Ahn highlighted his achievements during his tenure, including establishing a foundation for the military's political neutrality through the dismantling of the Defense Security Command and the reorganization of intelligence agencies, as well as laying the groundwork for the recovery of wartime operational control, advancing nuclear-powered submarines, and establishing a quasi-military system for the Marine Corps. He also mentioned strengthening the three-axis system and creating a foundation for advanced military capabilities, including drones, while emphasizing investment in the 'people' who will be the mainstay of a future strong military.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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