South Korean President Lee Jae Myung announced on Wednesday that the country’s defence budget will increase by 8.2% next year, reaching 66.3 trillion won ($47.1 billion), stressing that national peace must rest on a strong foundation of security.
Speaking at a ceremony marking South Korea’s Armed Forces Day, Lee underscored the growing need for self-reliance in defence amid intensifying global conflicts.
“The momentum for cooperation and shared prosperity is weakening across the world, and we are entering an era of increased conflict, where it’s every man for himself,” Lee said.
“To ensure peace and prosperity for the Republic of Korea, we must not depend on anyone else but strengthen our own power.”
Lee said the expanded budget would prioritize investment in advanced defence technologies, including drones and robotics, to enhance the country’s self-defence capabilities.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Defense minister Ahn Gyu-back inspect honor guards during a celebration to mark 77th Armed Forces Day in Gyeryong, South Korea, October 1, 2025. REUTERS/Kim Hong-Ji/Pool
He noted that South Korea’s annual defence spending already amounts to 1.4 times North Korea’s gross domestic product, underscoring Seoul’s military edge.
The president, who took office in June after a snap election triggered by the downfall of former leader Yoon Suk Yeol, also addressed the military’s image, calling for the restoration of public trust.
Yoon’s short-lived imposition of martial law earlier this year had seen troops and helicopters deployed to parliament, severely damaging the military’s reputation.
“An army meant to protect the people must never repeat pointing its guns at them,” Lee said, pledging reforms to ensure the armed forces uphold their duty to the nation.
While Lee has signaled openness to engagement with North Korea, he reiterated that genuine peace can only be built on credible deterrence.
Source: Reuters
Written By Rodney Mbua
