South Korea will maintain a “two-track approach” of strong deterrence and dialogue with North Korea. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back emphasized that building trust across the border is critical amid rising nuclear and missile threats. The government seeks to balance security measures with efforts to revive peace talks.
In his speech at the Seoul Defense Dialogue, Ahn warned that North Korea’s accelerating nuclear program threatens not only the Korean Peninsula but also global nonproliferation efforts. He pledged that South Korea will strengthen defensive capabilities without leaving gaps while keeping channels for diplomatic dialogue open.
“Our goal is to create peace through strength and sustainable dialogue,” Ahn said. He stressed practical steps to break the “vicious cycle of crisis” and generate opportunities for lasting peace. Ahn added that peace requires careful planning and continuous reaffirmation of commitments.
This year’s Seoul Defense Dialogue brought together over 1,000 officials and experts from 68 countries. Sessions focused on geopolitical rivalries, strategic stability, and the need for cooperation to manage regional security risks.
NATO, the Philippines, and Croatia joined discussions warning that North Korea’s growing missile and nuclear capabilities pose a grave international threat. They urged solidarity to support peace and emphasized caution regarding Pyongyang’s military ties with Russia.
Adm. Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chair of NATO’s Military Committee, highlighted the Ukraine war and North Korea’s cooperation with Moscow as sources of instability. He pledged closer collaboration with Indo-Pacific partners, including South Korea.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro stressed the importance of stronger engagement by international institutions to manage geopolitical risks. Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister Ivan Anusic underscored his country’s military modernization and the benefits of cooperation with South Korea.
South Korea’s security environment has become increasingly tense due to Pyongyang’s advances. North Korea has showcased more sophisticated delivery systems, including solid-fuel missiles and tactical nuclear warheads. Experts warn that its expanding arsenal may soon challenge existing defenses.
The South Korea defense and dialogue strategy complements President Lee Jae Myung’s efforts to balance deterrence with diplomacy. The administration dismantled propaganda loudspeakers along the border, stopped leaflet campaigns, and repatriated drifting North Korean fishers as confidence-building measures.
Overall, South Korea defense policies aim to protect the nation while opening avenues for dialogue with North Korea. Practical steps, international cooperation, and careful planning remain central to maintaining stability.
