Air Force Chief Apologizes for Series of Flight Accidents: "We Caused Public Concern... Comprehensive Measures Underway"

National Assembly Defense Committee Audit at Air Force Headquarters

On October 23, Air Force Chief of Staff Sohn Seokrak stated, "The Air Force will rigorously implement the comprehensive measures established to prevent the recurrence of flight accidents, and we will continue to fulfill our role as 'the military of the people' dedicated to protecting the lives and safety of our citizens."

At the National Assembly Defense Committee's audit held at the Air Force Headquarters in Gyeryong, South Chungcheong Province on the same day, General Sohn said, "Despite the many achievements the Air Force has attained this year, a series of accidents that occurred during our missions have caused public concern," and made the above remarks.

Yonhap News Agency

General Sohn stated, "North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities are becoming increasingly advanced, and our security environment is more serious than ever, given the intensification of wars, conflicts, and international tensions around the world." He continued, "Amidst this complex security environment, the Air Force will firmly maintain its military readiness posture, fulfill its core mission of 'defending the airspace of the Republic of Korea,' and support peace on the Korean Peninsula with strong air power."

He further emphasized, "We will do our utmost to build a 'smart, elite, and strong military' that leads future battlefields and always prevails in combat." He added, "We will focus on advancing artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, securing core technologies for AI pilots, and establishing manned-unmanned integrated combat systems based on these advancements. In addition, we will systematically and seamlessly enhance our space power, organizations, and personnel to strengthen our space operation capabilities."

General Sohn also stated, "We will actively support and take the lead in the development of the national defense industry," adding, "By ensuring the stable deployment of the KF-21 Boramae, which will be delivered to the Air Force next year, we will demonstrate the excellence of domestically developed weapon systems and widely promote this both at home and abroad."