Yoon: "Belief in Liberal Democracy Is Security"... Emphasizing 'Mental Armament of Soldiers'

Presiding Over Key Military Commanders Meeting
"North Korea Attempts to Divide National Opinion"

President Yoon Suk-yeol stated on the 31st, "Please make efforts to ensure that the troops are mentally armed with a firm sense of national identity and security awareness."

According to the Blue House, President Yoon made these remarks during a meeting of key military commanders held at the State Guest House in Cheong Wa Dae that afternoon, saying, "North Korea is defining us as a combatant and main adversary, attempting to cause public anxiety and division of national opinion." He emphasized, "Faith in liberal democracy and the market economy system is security itself."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Regarding the anticipated multifaceted provocations by North Korea ahead of the general elections in April, President Yoon stressed, "Complete preparation plans for each provocation scenario and crush North Korea's will to provoke through overwhelming response." He also urged thorough preparedness against possible disruptive activities such as spreading false information and fake news targeting critical national facilities.

President Yoon said, "Strong defense capabilities and readiness are the key elements to deter North Korea from shaking our Republic of Korea," adding, "Our military must unite as one and focus on protecting and defending the people."

He also expressed gratitude to the troops and commanders who are dedicated to their missions even in the dead of winter.

This was the second time President Yoon personally presided over the meeting since July 2022. The meeting was attended by Defense Minister Shin Won-sik, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Kim Myung-soo, and key commanders from each branch of the military. According to the Blue House, reports on military readiness and subsequent discussions were held regarding various types of provocations including North Korea's cyber attacks, drone infiltrations, provocations in the northwestern island border areas, and rear-area disruptions.

Earlier that morning, President Yoon also chaired the 57th Central Integrated Defense Meeting, where he reviewed the integrated defense posture against North Korean provocations.