Page 4 - 2020 Defence White Paper
P. 4

Minister’s Message





















                             Our recent security situation is extremely complex and grave, both
                            internally and externally. Neighboring countries of the Korean Peninsula
                            continue to reinforce their cutting-edge military capabilities, pushing their
                            own priorities while expanding their military domains not only in the sea
                            and air but also to space and cyber. In addition, transnational and non-

                            military threats such as COVID-19, disasters and terrorism are emerging as
                            challenges to national security. In particular, with the spread of COVID-19
                            and the strategic competition between the United States and China, the
                            fluidity and uncertainty of the regional security structure are increasing.


                             Meanwhile, despite showing its willingness to improve inter-Korean

                            relations following the conclusion of the Comprehensive Military Agreement
                            in 2018, North Korea has not responded proactively to the efforts of our
                            government and the international community towards peace establishment.


                             Amid such challenges within the security landscape, the ROK Armed
                            Forces maintains a robust military readiness posture based on "formidable
                            force" and unwavering ROK–US Alliance while fulfilling the role and

                            responsibility as "Armed Forces for the people", exerting their utmost efforts
                            to construct "Strong Security, Proud Armed Forces and United National
                            Defense".


                             The ROK Armed Forces maintains a combined defense posture and a
                            military readiness posture that can respond to local provocations and all-out
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