Seoul: Acting Defense Minister Kim Seon-ho urged new military officers Thursday to properly practice loyalty to the people during a military academy graduation ceremony, the defense ministry said. Kim made the remark in a commencement speech at the Korea Military Academy in northern Seoul amid fierce public backlash against the military over its involvement in the operation of President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law declaration in December.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim emphasized the importance of adhering to the constitutional mission of defending the state, protecting the lives of the people, and safeguarding liberal democracy. "For a soldier, loyalty means being loyal to the nation and the people as defined by the Constitution," Kim was quoted as saying. He further urged the new officers to practice proper loyalty and bravery by focusing solely on the nation and its people, regardless of the circumstances.
The ceremony comes at a time when several military officers who graduated from the elite academy for Army officers have been indicted on insurrection and abuse of power charges. Among them is Gen. Park An-su, the chief of staff of the Army, who served as the martial law commander. Kim's remarks reflect the need for the military to maintain its integrity and commitment to constitutional values amidst ongoing scrutiny and challenges.