Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung announced on Monday the government's plan to make substantial investments in research and development in the defense and aerospace sectors by 2030. This initiative aims to secure essential technologies and develop advanced weapon systems, marking a significant strategic move for South Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee outlined the government's vision to position South Korea among the world's top four defense powers. This announcement was made during his opening speech at the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2025. He emphasized that by 2030, an unprecedented budget would be allocated to defense and aerospace R and D to achieve self-reliant space development and bolster future defense capabilities.
The proposed government expenditure intends to focus on developing indigenous technologies, emphasizing components and materials like special semiconductors critical for defense applications. To facilitate the application of innovative technologies, Lee promised comprehensive reforms in policies and regulations, including expanding a "fast-track" system to rapidly integrate new technologies into the military.
Lee also committed to reducing entry barriers for midsized firms and startups possessing advanced technologies, enabling them to play a more active role in the defense and aerospace industries. He highlighted the necessity of global cooperation in security and defense, aiming to establish South Korea as a trusted partner rather than just an exporter of advanced products.
During a discussion with defense industry officials, Lee reiterated the government's intent to significantly increase R and D spending to advance the arms industry and achieve a self-reliant military. He stressed the importance of a military capable of independently ensuring national defense, with some reinforcement.
To boost export competitiveness, Lee stated the importance of deploying domestically developed weapon systems within the armed forces to validate their reliability and performance. He also advocated for the defense industry to be a catalyst for economic growth by increasing the localization of parts and diversifying export markets, with hopes that innovation in defense will extend to other high-tech sectors.
In alignment with efforts to enhance defense exports, Lee's chief of staff, Kang Hoon-sik, embarked on a trip to Europe on Sunday. The mission is to fortify defense industry partnerships and expand South Korea's arms exports. The presidential office confirmed that Kang will deliver Lee's letters to several European nations, aiming for deeper defense cooperation, amid impending decisions on major weapons acquisition programs in the region.