President Lee: "ROK-US Alliance Must Not Be Overly Relied Upon... We Will Expedite the Recovery of OPCON"

According to The Financial News, President Lee Jae Myung said on the 27th, "Above all, to respond to a rapidly changing security environment, self-reliant national defense is essential," adding, "The recovery of Wartime Operational Control (OPCON) will be pursued without delay." He has repeatedly underscored the importance of self-reliant defense at a time when uncertainty is rising due to the wars in the Middle East and other global crises.
On this day at the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Korea in Yongsan, Seoul, President Lee presided over his first meeting of key military commanders since taking office. He stated, "In this grave security situation, the foremost responsibility of our armed forces is to maintain the highest level of military readiness so that we can respond to any provocation or threat from the enemy."
President Lee went on, "In particular, I ask that you maintain a strong combined defense posture based on the ROK-US Alliance. It is true that an ironclad ROK-US Alliance is an essential element for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula." However, he cautioned, "We must not become overly dependent on it. Our military must be fully prepared to play a leading role in the defense of the Korean Peninsula."
He noted, "As the international order undergoes upheaval, the global security environment is changing fundamentally. The war between Russia and Ukraine is now entering its fifth year, and the war in the Middle East has reached its 28th day as of today. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has recently begun work to mark and fortify the border along the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) within the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)."
He then added, "For the peace and prosperity of the Republic of Korea (ROK), I ask you to strengthen your sense of responsibility and determination that, under any circumstances, we will perfectly defend our territory and our people with our own strength. I believe that such a mindset is precisely what will accelerate the recovery of OPCON."
He also called for progress on defense reforms, including a selective volunteer military system. "To take the lead on the future battlefield, transitioning to a smart, strong military is also essential," President Lee said, urging, "To that end, I ask that you move more quickly on defense reforms, including the selective volunteer military system."
President Lee stated, "As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Korea, I will build a stronger military, a military that enjoys greater public trust. I will fully support your efforts and the government will provide backing in many areas." He continued, "Our armed forces do not belong to the president; they belong to the people. The object of our loyalty, through the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Korea, is the people themselves. I have complete confidence that you will faithfully fulfill your role as the people's military."
cjk@fnnews.com Reporter Choi Jong-geun Reporter