Ahn Gyu-baek: "Will Ensure Accountability for 12·3 Martial Law and Rebuild the People's Military"

National Assembly Holds Defense Minister Confirmation Hearing
First Civilian Defense Minister in 64 Years if Appointed
"Will Restore Public Trust by Establishing Civilian Control"

On July 15, Defense Minister nominee Ahn Gyu-baek stated, "What we must do now is to ensure accountability for the illegal 12·3 Martial Law, correct the wrongdoings of the previous administration, solidify civilian control to prevent our military from becoming a private tool of power, and rebuild the people's armed forces."

During his opening remarks at the National Assembly Defense Committee's confirmation hearing that morning, Ahn said, "We must achieve true national defense that protects the country and its people, and restore the honor of the uniform. Through trust, communication, and the completion of strong military power, we will foster an advanced and powerful military that earns the trust of the people," he stated.

Yonhap News Agency

Ahn pointed out, "Our military is facing serious internal and external challenges," and explained, "These include a sharp decline in military manpower due to the demographic cliff, increased uncertainty in the international security order, changes in the nature of warfare brought about by advances in cutting-edge science and technology, North Korea's continued enhancement of its nuclear and missile capabilities, and the strategic alignment of North Korea, China, and Russia, which is heightening tensions in Northeast Asia."

He continued, "In such circumstances, the previous administration turned the guns and swords that should protect the people against them, undermining the very reason for the existence of the armed forces and dragging the honor of the uniform through the mud. This is precisely why a civilian minister is necessary," adding, "I firmly state that the achievements of our military must not be denied because of the wrongful actions of a few in power."

Ahn presented the following priorities: rebuilding the people's military, implementing substantial defense reforms, establishing a defense cooperation network centered on the ROK-U.S. alliance, realizing South Korea as a powerhouse in the defense industry, and providing military support for the establishment of peace on the Korean Peninsula. He said, "By establishing civilian control so that the military can focus on its original duties while maintaining political neutrality, we will restore public trust. I will take the lead in improving the treatment and welfare of service members and will spearhead military innovation through fair and balanced personnel management."

Ahn also stressed, "We will continue to expand cooperation so that the ROK-U.S. alliance develops as a global comprehensive strategic alliance that serves our national interests. While deepening ROK-U.S.-Japan security cooperation, we will also strengthen defense cooperation with regional and global partners."

Regarding the Lee Jaemyung administration's vision for inter-Korean relations, he stated, "While maintaining deterrence through strong defense capabilities, we must keep the door open for dialogue aimed at easing tensions and building trust," adding, "We will create peace through strength and build sustainable peace through sincere dialogue and communication."

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