President Lee Questions Defense Anxieties, Cites Strong Self-Defense Capabilities

President Lee Jae-myung's strong assertion regarding South Korea's self-defense capabilities sends a clear message: the nation is more than capable of protecting itself. At a time when regional security concerns are often amplified, it's crucial to ground discussions in objective reality, not unfounded anxieties.

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Why do we have anxiety about self-defense... a nation must protect itself.

The President rightly pointed out that South Korea's defense industry is the world's fourth-largest exporter of arms. Coupled with a formidable indigenous military force that ranks fifth globally even without the presence of US troops, the notion that we are somehow vulnerable without foreign assistance is simply not supported by facts. Our defense budget alone dwarfs that of North Korea, underscoring our substantial military might.

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The defense industry's exports have soared to fourth in the world, so why do we have anxiety as if self-defense would be difficult without foreign troops?

It is vital for the public to understand these realities. While acknowledging the concerns of some, President Lee's call to Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-baek to disseminate this information is essential. We must counter narratives that sow unnecessary fear and instead foster a national confidence rooted in our proven capabilities. This is not about arrogance, but about recognizing our strength and embracing the responsibility of self-reliance in safeguarding our sovereignty.

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Excluding US forces, South Korea's own military strength ranks fifth in the world, according to a US private analysis organization.