Seoul (TDI): For the first time in 64 years, South Korea has named a civilian defense minister. This comes on the heels of the victory of the liberal candidate, Lee Jae Myung, as the President.
The decision follows widespread outrage over last year’s martial law crisis and the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The appointment by President Lee is generally seen as a move towards greater civilian control of the military and a milestone in the democratic rule of South Korea.
The announcement made by the Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik, on Monday, realizes President Lee’s pre-election promise to overhaul the military and regain public confidence in state institutions. The nominated Ahn Gyu-back is an experienced lawmaker and key national security policymaker.
“He will be pushing for military reform, particularly regarding its performance during martial law,” the Presidential Chief explained in a press conference.
President Lee also sought to bring about accountability and transparency in defense affairs and the appointment of a civilian defense minister is now largely being seen as a promise fulfilled.Â
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South Korea’s political crisis started in December 2024 when the then-president Yoon sent troops carrying guns to parliament in a disputed bid to impose martial law, which led to mass protests and a parliamentary impeachment motion.
Former defense minister Kim Yong-hyun is currently on trial for treason for allegedly masterminding the move and writing the martial law decree.Â
Apart from domestic matters, the naming of Ahn also suggests the potential for moderation of South Korea’s defense policy towards North Korea.
The new government has already suspended propaganda loudspeaker broadcasts along the border, which prompted Pyongyang to suspend its unsettling psychological broadcasts in return, a development the defense ministry has welcomed as “a meaningful opportunity to ease inter-Korean military tensions and restore mutual trust.”
As Ahn takes charge, many see his appointment as a turning point for South Korea’s civil-military relations. Supporters hope his leadership will usher in long-awaited reforms while balancing defense priorities with diplomatic outreach, particularly toward North Korea.
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