Military Service as a Process of Growth, Not a Pause in Life

Announces military restructuring to address demographic challenges.

Maintains 350,000 active combat troops while outsourcing non-combat roles.

Plans to reorganize and adjust functions of the Defense Counterintelligence Command.

Dismissing concerns over a possible USFK withdrawal, says such fears are "groundless."

Keeps approximately 41,000 long-term technical specialists.

States that North Korea - Russia military cooperation violates UN Security Council resolutions.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back speaks with reporters during a press conference at the MND Convention Center in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on Sept. 30.

Minister Ahn emphasized that military service should not be regarded as "a blank period in life," but rather as "a process that enriches one's life." He pledged to enhance systems and training programs to help service members build skills and expertise during their service.

At a press conference held on September 30, one day before Armed Forces Day, Minister Ahn Gyu-back remarked that the younger generation is considerably weak in resolving conflicts and communicating. He added that the discipline and social order instilled in Korea's 600,000 troops through collective military life have served as a vital force and foundation for the country's development.

He also outlined his plan to reform the military structure in preparation for the demographic cliff era. Minister Ahn stressed that the core of the reform is expanding the outsourcing of military functions to the private sector."

He explained, "To maintain a 500,000-strong armed force, we will keep 350,000 combat troops in active service while outsourcing the entire non-combat sector to the private sector. Positions for approximately 41,000 technical personnel responsible for weapons systems will be filled by long-term service members, led by skilled non-commissioned officers."

Minister Ahn said, "We are already relying on private contractors for non-combat roles like food services and transport." The military has outsourced 38 dining facilities, along with transportation and laundry services, to private contractors.

Minister Ahn added, "The military plans to restructure and consolidate its scattered IT functions into a corporate-style organization. We also plan to outsource various areas, such as converting rear-area base security into a system run by private security firms."

Minister Ahn said, "We will move to restore the September 19 Inter-Korean Military Agreement step by step. The agreement is in a state of temporary suspension, not termination. We cannot isolate ourselves in permanent hostility toward the North." He emphasized, "Dialogue continues even in wartime - so maintaining civilian and cultural exchanges is crucial."

In response to Unification Minister Chung Dong-young's remark that "suspending military training along the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) is necessary," Minister Ahn said, "Opinions may vary, but training is a fundamental duty for soldiers." He added, "Training is essential to cultivate soldiers' instincts and readiness. While it may be adjusted within the framework of the September 19 Inter-Korean Military Agreement, unilaterally suspending training is not an option."

Discussions on the transition of wartime operational control (OPCON) are progressing without delay. Minister Ahn said, "In accordance with the procedures and framework agreed upon between South Korea and the United States, the transition is being carried out in a systematic, stable, and proactive manner. Even now, the two countries are maintaining close consultations."

He expressed his intention to strengthen the nation's defense capabilities by increasing the defense budget by 8% to meet the conditions required for the transition of OPCON. Minister Ahn added, "Regardless of whether the United States supports it or not, we must proceed with the transition, and to achieve self-reliant defense, we have no choice but to raise defense spending by over 8%."

Regarding the Defense Counterintelligence Command (DOC), which was deeply implicated in the December 3 emergency martial law declaration, Minister Ahn said, "We will transfer and realign its security and investigative functions to other relevant organizations." Minister Ahn said, "The DOC will be reorganized into a new entity specializing in counterintelligence and information activities. A joint special committee composed of civilian, government, and military representatives will draw up a rational plan to overcome internal unrest and design the future of national defense."

Minister Ahn flatly dismissed speculation about a possible reduction or withdrawal of United States Forces Korea (USFK) as "groundless." He said, "There are absolutely no signs of any troop reduction or withdrawal." He said firmly, "There has been no such discussion between South Korea and the United States."

Regarding military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, Minister Ahn stated, "North Korea is receiving advanced technologies, including satellite and missile know-how, in exchange for dispatching troops to Russia, while Russia secures war supplies from the North. This constitutes a clear violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and runs counter to the norms and order of the international community." He added, "The government is closely watching developments in North Korea - Russia military ties. We will reassess potential risks, strengthen our readiness posture, and enhance our capabilities by analyzing North Korea's evolving doctrines and weapon systems, refined by its experience in modern warfare."

Minister Ahn remarked that the core leadership position in the military is that of a lieutenant colonel, adding that he plans to emphasize this in his upcoming lecture for the lieutenant colonel training course.

His comment appears to reflect the fact that officers at this rank typically serve as battalion commanders, leading junior officers and enlisted personnel in field operations. He also expressed his belief that "the military is an organization sustained by morale. It requires generous recognition through praise and commendations."

After over two months in office, Minister Ahn remarked, "Being defense minister carries a heavier responsibility than serving as a lawmaker." Although he has long served as a defense specialist and a member of the National Assembly's National Defense Committee, Minister Ahn said, "I did not realize the scope of responsibilities that come with this position until I became defense minister. The workload is immense. I've had only two personal appointments since taking office."

By Byeong-No, Yun <[email protected] >

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