Page 4 - 2018 Defense White Paper

Message from the Minister of National Defense

2017–2018 was a period of transition marked by rapid changes in the security environment on the Korean Peninsula.
In 2017, the sixth nuclear test conducted by North Korea heightened tensions on the peninsula. In 2018, efforts for
denuclearization and the establishment of peace on the peninsula by the government of the Republic of Korea helped chart
the course toward a new security environment. Three inter-Korean summits were held as well as a DPRK–U.S. summit. In
accordance with the “Agreement on the Implementation of the Historic Panmunjom Declaration in the Military Domain”
signed in September 2018, practical steps were taken to promote alleviation of tension and confidence building between the
two Koreas.
This period has also witnessed an increasing diversification of threats to our security. Amid persistent security threats
fueled by traditional conflict factors such as territorial disputes and religious and ethnic divides, transnational and nonmilitary
threats have been gaining ground worldwide in the form of terrorism and cyberattacks. In Northeast Asia, instability and
uncertainty are on the rise due to regional alliances and partnerships as well as persistent tension between countries.
The Armed Forces of the Republic of Korea strives to stably manage the security situation on the peninsula so that
our citizens can peacefully go about their everyday activities. We provide strong support for the government’s policy by
solidifying the national defense posture founded upon a robust ROK–U.S. combined defense posture capable of responding
to omnidirectional security threats.
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Since the 50 Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) in 2018, The ROK–U.S. relations are headed in a new direction.
While maintaining a strong ROK–U.S. partnership and continuously developing the alliance into a comprehensive strategic
alliance, our armed forces will work toward acquiring the critical military capabilities required for the transition of wartime
operational control (OPCON) in a timely manner and building an ROK-led combined defense system to ensure peace and
stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Moreover, by fully and forcefully implementing Defense Reform 2.0, we will build a powerful military capable of
supporting peace on the Korean Peninsula. Defense Reform 2.0 is a necessary step not only due to today’s changing security
environment but also to heed the call of the people of the Republic of Korea for a strong military. By enhancing the capacity
of the ROK Armed Forces to assume a leading role in defense in preparation of future warfare through Defense Reform
2.0, we will establish a new and more efficient concept for the management and employment of forces fitting for the current
security environment. At the same time, the military will be realigned from a troop-centered structure to one that is centered
on cutting-edge weapon systems.