S. Korea defense chief vows self-reliant buildup alongside stronger US alliance

South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back said Saturday that North Korea's military buildup and its growing alignment with Russia are fueling instability across the Indo-Pacific, vowing Seoul will advance both self-reliant defense capabilities and its alliance with the United States.

The announcement lays out Seoul's dual-track security strategy — building indigenous military capabilities while preserving the U.S. nuclear umbrella — a balance of direct resonance for Korean-American communities in Southern California tracking developments on the peninsula.

Speaking at the Asian Security Summit in Singapore, Ahn said North Korea's military ties with Russia and continued development of nuclear and missile programs were reshaping security across the region.

"The North's military buildup and its advancement of nuclear and missile capabilities are adding to instability across the entire Indo-Pacific region," Ahn said in remarks reported by The Korea Times. "The developments on the Korean Peninsula clearly act as a key variable in global security."

To counter those threats, Seoul will advance its three-axis deterrence system — comprising a multilayered missile defense shield known as the Korea Air and Missile Defense system, a preemptive strike platform called Kill Chain, and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation capability — while integrating artificial intelligence-based systems and drone defense technology as part of a broader "smart military" initiative, according to The Korea Times.

"The Republic of Korea will continue its efforts to strengthen self-reliant defense capabilities in tandem with enhancing the alliance with the United States," Ahn said. "Through these efforts, we will play a more leading role in the defense of the Korean Peninsula."

Despite the emphasis on military preparedness, Ahn signaled openness to engagement with Pyongyang. "While maintaining robust deterrence against North Korean threats, we will pursue our peaceful coexistence policy through dialogue between the two Koreas," he said, adding that "the most reliable security comes with peace that does not need war."

Ahn also addressed maritime security, saying South Korea was reviewing practical measures to contribute to protecting shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. "The government of the Republic of Korea places great importance on guaranteeing freedom of navigation on key sea lanes in accordance with international law," he said.

Ahn's remarks reflect a broader strategic recalibration in Seoul as North Korea's battlefield experience gained through its alignment with Russia adds a new dimension to an already volatile security environment on the Korean Peninsula.