Seoul: Newly appointed Vice Defense Minister Lee Doo-hee has committed to developing "overwhelming" military capabilities through the integration of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, while advocating for institutional change within the military. This announcement was made during his inauguration ceremony, following his recent appointment as the ministry's second-highest ranking official.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee emphasized a "pragmatic" approach to defense policy, stressing the importance of leading institutional change and innovation to ensure the military remains focused on its core duties. He highlighted the role of advanced AI technologies in constructing formidable military capabilities.
Lee also addressed the evolving international landscape, noting the shifting dynamics caused by North Korea's growing ties with Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine and the prioritization of security and economic interests by allied nations. He underscored the necessity for South Korea's military to engage in pragmatic defense cooperation to safeguard national interests and reinforce deterrence capabilities, particularly through the South Korea-U.S. alliance.
Lee, who previously served as a three-star general and headed the Army Missile Strategic Command, will temporarily assume the responsibilities of the defense minister until the nominee, Ahn Gyu-back, is confirmed by parliament.
In a related development, outgoing Vice Minister Kim Seon-ho expressed regret for not preventing the declaration of martial law by former President Yoon Suk Yeol on December 3. Kim urged the military to uphold political neutrality, recognizing the martial law event as a breach of this principle and taking full responsibility for not averting it.