President Lee Jaemyung emphasized, "Just as maintaining strong security is crucial, the lives and health of our soldiers are also extremely important," adding, "Training should be conducted as if it were real combat, but safety must always be the top priority."
Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Ahn Gwiryung made this statement in a written briefing on September 12. Following a meeting in the Gangwon region earlier that day, President Lee visited the Chilseong Observatory of the Army's 7th Infantry Division in Hwacheon County, Gangwon Province, where he inspected the military's readiness by observing the area near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) and Guard Posts (GP).
Afterward, President Lee toured the construction site of a state-of-the-art military barracks. According to Deputy Spokesperson Ahn, he expressed hope that soldiers would be able to live in a better environment and carefully checked whether there were any issues with water supply and other necessities.
President Lee said, "Thanks to the sacrifice, dedication, and hard work of the soldiers of the 7th Infantry Division, the people of the Republic of Korea are able to enjoy peaceful daily lives." He added, "Seeing the soldiers makes me feel reassured, but at the same time, I also feel apologetic." He further encouraged the troops, stating, "You are fulfilling the sacred duty of national defense under challenging circumstances."
This visit was accompanied by Minister of National Defense Ahn Kyubaek, Defense Secretary Kwak Taeshin, and others.
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