Defense Minister: "Prepared for Precision Strikes if Signs of North Korean Missiles Appear"...Public Warning to North Korea

Cheonmu is a new type of multiple launch rocket system with a maximum range of 80 km, more than twice the range of the current main multiple launcher, Guryong, and has greater destructive power. (Photo by Ministry of National Defense)

[Asia Economy Yang Nak-gyu, Military Specialist Reporter] On the 1st, Defense Minister Seo Wook presided over the reorganization ceremonies of the Army Missile Strategy Command and the Air Force Missile Defense Command, the two main pillars of missile operations, raising the level of warnings against North Korea.

According to the Ministry of National Defense, Minister Seo stated in his address at the Missile Strategy Command reorganization ceremony held that day, "Currently, the military possesses a large quantity and variety of missiles with significantly improved range, accuracy, and power, enabling the capability to accurately and swiftly strike any target in North Korea."

Minister Seo emphasized, "In particular, when missile launch signs are clear, we also have the capability and posture to precisely strike the launch point as well as command and support facilities."

Regarding the reorganization of the Missile Strategy Command, Minister Seo said, "It holds great significance in establishing a proactive and leading response posture against the increasing all-around security threats, including North Korea's nuclear and missile threats," adding, "It will be possible to exert even stronger deterrence against North Korea."

The policy of precise strikes on the origin point upon missile signs is part of the military's 'nuclear and weapons of mass destruction (WMD) response system' designed to counter North Korea's nuclear and missile threats, constituting the 'strategic strike system.'

The strategic strike system encompasses the past conservative administrations' 'Kill Chain' system and the concept of Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR). It is unusual for the current government’s defense minister to publicly mention this.

This is interpreted as sending a public warning message amid expectations of high-intensity provocations such as additional launches of North Korea's intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and nuclear tests.

Minister Seo's remarks at the reorganization ceremonies of the two commands appear aimed at calming public anxiety caused by North Korea's recent successive provocations and demonstrating military superiority over North Korea.

The expansion and reorganization of the Army Missile Strategy Command and the Air Force Missile Defense Command followed the revision of the unit regulations, which were promulgated that day after approval by President Moon Jae-in. Analysts interpret this as reflecting the military’s intention to respond to North Korea’s advanced missile capabilities through renaming the Army Missile Command, a 'missile attack unit,' and the Air Force Air Defense Guided Missile Command, a 'defense unit,' along with corresponding organizational restructuring and force enhancement.

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