President Moon: "Security More Important During Government Transition... Senior Generals Need 'Jeolchibushim' Attitude"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] On the 20th, President Moon Jae-in emphasized the importance of security, stating, "Security is always important, but it is even more crucial during times of government transition and when a new administration is settling in," urging senior generals, including those promoted to middle and high ranks, to adopt a spirit of 'jeolchibushim (cutting teeth and corroding heart).'

During a reception following the morning ceremony for general promotions, appointments, and award presentations, President Moon said, "Historically, the Imjin War, the Jeongmyo and Byeongja invasions occurred due to a lack of jeolchibushim spirit. In our geopolitical situation surrounded by four major powers, it is especially urgent for senior generals to embody this attitude to avoid being swayed," emphasizing the point.

President Moon had previously highlighted the importance of 'jeolchibushim' among military generals during the 2019 promotion and appointment ceremony, referencing the Imjin War and the Byeongja invasion.

He also expressed high expectations for the newly appointed Chief of Naval Operations, Kim Jeong-su, an expert with extensive experience in both maritime and land key positions in operations and force development, saying, "The Korean-style aircraft carrier project reflected in next year's budget is a project that will take over ten years. Please proceed successfully with the project, keeping in mind not the current aircraft carrier but the future one."

In response, Admiral Kim said, "I consider the appointment notification not just an honor but an order to dedicate and serve," adding, "I will do my best to ensure the light aircraft carrier project proceeds without any setbacks."

He continued, "I will also make thorough efforts in quarantine, vaccination, and troop management," and pledged, "I take the President's words seriously that 'comradeship respecting human rights is the shortcut to becoming a strong military,' and I will devote myself to creating an advanced naval culture."

Lieutenant General Lee Doo-hee, Commander of the 1st Corps, expressed his aspirations, saying, "I will firmly defend the northern part of the metropolitan area to ensure peace and create an advanced military culture where human rights and fundamental rights are guaranteed." He also stated, "I am fully aware that rank and position must be used solely for the country, the people, and subordinates," and pledged, "With a fierce historical awareness and a spirit of jeolchibushim, I will work for the nation's security."

Lieutenant General Kang Dong-hoon, Commander of Naval Operations, said, "For a soldier, meaningful days are the day they enter the military and the day they complete their mission," adding, "Until the day my mission ends, I will perfectly protect the seas of the Republic of Korea." Lieutenant General Choi Seong-cheon, Commander of Air Force Operations, said, "To fulfill the Air Force's mission of airspace defense, I will devote myself with a spirit of jeolchibushim," and added, "I will also do my best to improve military culture and establish a proper and healthy military environment."

In response, President Moon emphasized strong security, saying, "The best security is maintaining peace through deterrence without fighting," and concluded the reception by urging the promoted generals to firmly protect the Republic of Korea.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.