Defense Minister Shin Won-sik Inaugurated: "We Will Retaliate Against North Korean Provocations to the End"

Inauguration Ceremony at the Ministry of National Defense Building on the 7th

Newly appointed Minister of National Defense Shin Won-sik stated on the 7th, "If North Korea provokes, we will immediately, strongly, and relentlessly retaliate to crush the enemy's will and capability for further provocations."

In his inaugural speech at the Ministry of National Defense Change of Command Ceremony held at the Yongsan Ministry of National Defense building that afternoon, Minister Shin said, "We will establish a defense posture that overwhelms the enemy. Retaliation is deterrence, and deterrence is peace."

Earlier in the morning, following President Yoon Suk-yeol's approval of his appointment, Minister Shin paid respects at the Seoul National Cemetery as his first official schedule.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

In his inaugural speech, Minister Shin also expressed his determination to strengthen the mental resilience of the Republic of Korea Armed Forces personnel. He stated, "We will arm our soldiers with strong mental fortitude," adding, "We will establish a clear sense of national identity, enemy perception, and military spirit so that they clearly understand what to protect, whom to fight, and how to win."

He also emphasized strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance and combined defense posture. Minister Shin said, "The Yoon Suk-yeol administration opened a new horizon for the 70-year ROK-U.S. alliance this year through the 'Washington Declaration' and the launch of the 'Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG).'" He added, "To support this militarily, we will integrate the U.S. nuclear forces with our advanced conventional forces to enhance the completeness of deterrence against North Korea."

Furthermore, Minister Shin added, "We will strengthen ROK-U.S. joint exercises and training, and develop the defense science and technology cooperation system between the two countries."

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