Seoul: Defense Minister nominee Ahn Gyu-back announced his intention to thoroughly review the previously nullified military tension reduction agreement, contingent upon his appointment. However, he dismissed the likelihood of its immediate reimplementation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn, who has been a lawmaker for five terms, was selected by President Lee Jae Myung as the first civilian to fill the defense minister role in 64 years, a position traditionally held by retired military generals. During a meeting with reporters, Ahn emphasized the significance of dialogue, stating, "North Korea is our enemy yet our people. We need to deal with the North in a multitrack approach. The 2018 military pact should be reviewed from the starting point."
During his presidential campaign, President Lee had expressed intentions to revive the inter-Korean military tension reduction pact, which was suspended by South Korea in June last year following North Korea's repeated launching of trash-carrying balloons. Ahn, however, suggested that he would consider the prevailing circumstances to pursue the "most peaceful approach," highlighting the need for establishing a mood of detente through civilian exchange before any immediate restoration of the agreement.
In response to inquiries regarding increased defense spending and speculation about Washington's push for "strategic flexibility" of U.S. Forces Korea, Ahn stated that he would address these concerns based on national interests. "I believe we need to cope with such issues in a proactive and positive manner, rather than a passive manner. I will assess where our national interest lies and approach issues in such a proactive manner," Ahn remarked.
Ahn also pledged to restore the military's confidence and rebuild troop morale, which has suffered following former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun's involvement in former President Yoon Suk Yeol's brief martial law attempt. "It is the reality that our military is facing difficulties due to the Dec. 3 illegal insurrection. The military's morale has plummeted. . I will pour all my efforts to resolve this issue," he assured.
Moreover, Ahn underscored the necessity of holding accountable those involved in the martial law bid, warning that a temporary solution could result in persistent issues. In addition to Kim, senior military officials, including Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park An-su, face charges related to their roles in the martial law plot.