Seoul: South Korea will invest 113.4 billion won (US$79.1 million) this year to develop next-generation defense technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, and robots, the industry ministry announced.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the investment represents a 32.3 percent increase from the corresponding amount for 2024, as reported by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. This funding will be directed toward 132 projects, which include the development of an amphibious mobile reconnaissance robot, a micro-suicide drone system, and next-generation weapons systems aimed at export markets.
The government plans to establish a civil-military council focused on naval vessel maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) to enhance defense cooperation with the United States, the ministry stated. First Vice Industry Minister Park Sung-taek emphasized the importance of technological innovation through the integration of cutting-edge private sector technologies, such as AI and drones, with the defense sector to maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving defense market.