Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

On Monday, September 9, Defense Minister Kim Yong Hyun visited the 2nd Marine Division to assess military readiness and offer encouragement to the soldiers.

At a frontline observation post, Minister Kim received a briefing on security operations and emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust state of military readiness.

Minister Kim remarked, “Our military should not fear the enemy but rather the possibility of failing our people. Our greatest concern should be an inadequate response that compromises the safety of the public.”

He continued, “Show no mercy to the enemy. If provoked, respond swiftly, decisively, and ensure they are unable to provoke again. Report the outcome.”

He also highlighted recent successes, stating, “Our military successfully guided a North Korean defector on August 8 and completed an outstanding firing exercise at the northwestern islands on September 5.”

Minister Kim visited the Bachelor Officer Quarters (BOQ) to assess living conditions and boost troop morale during a shared meal.

He pledged, “I will significantly enhance the service conditions and compensation for our soldiers.” He added, “I will ensure that the pride in the saying, ‘If anyone could be a Marine, I wouldn’t want to be one,’ is upheld.”