Page 57 - 2020 Defence White Paper

Smart defense innovation involves fostering a smart, strong force through defense
innovation based on the cutting-edge technology of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
The MND will realize efficient defense management by cultivating ready-for-
combat warriors based on the live, virtual, constructive (LVC) training system
and managing the life cycle of defense resources. At the same time, the MND will Chapter 2
continue to innovate its technology and foundations by creating a super-connected,
super-intelligent, and super-converged defense infrastructure, and innovate its force
system to prepare for future wars through intelligent and advanced weapon systems.

3. Outcomes

Along with the implementation of Defense Reform 2.0, the MND is also making
efforts to apply advanced science and technology of the Fourth Industrial Revolution
in all areas of defense. The current assessment is that the progress with implementing
plans regarding Defense Reform 2.0 so far is on track to achieving the final goal,
taking one step further towards enhancing the national defense capacity and
expeditiously creating a strong military.

In terms of military structure, the MND laid the foundation for the development
of future command structure, such as reorganization of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
(JCS). In 2019, the ROK Army established the Ground Operations Command, which
integrated the First ROK Army (FROKA) and the Third ROK Army (TROKA).
In conjunction with the inactivation of four divisions, the total number of standing
troops of the Army, Navy, and Air Forces was reduced to 555,000 in 2020. The
Navy reorganized its Special Warfare Flotilla while the Marine Corps activated an
aviation battalion. The Air Force reorganized its units, including the activation of
a reconnaissance wing and a space operations unit. Reorganization is also being
carried out in the defense manpower structure by increasing the ratio of officers by
4.3%p in 2020 (2017: 31.6%; 2020: 35.9%) in tandem with the reduction of troops,
and by expanding the civilian workforce. Furthermore, in order to respond to
omnidirectional security threats, the MND is significantly reinforcing its combat
power by fielding cutting-edge weapons systems such as MRLs, unmanned aerial
reconnaissance vehicles, submarines (KSS-III), and F-35As. The MND is also in the
process of formulating a long-term military structure development plan to adapt to
the future security environment, considering potential changes in threats, alliances,
resources, and technology after the full implementation of Defense Reform 2.0.
As for the defense management, the following efforts have been made: (a) transition

Chapter 2. National Security Strategy and Defense Policy