Month: March 2025

Source: Assainir, relancer et développer ensemble : les orientations du 18e gouvernement

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department today launched the Biodiversity Geographic Information System (BGIS) to provide a one-stop platform for the public to gain a better understanding of Hong Kong’s diverse species.

The BGIS is the second development phase of the Hong Kong Biodiversity Information Hub, an initiative under the Hong Kong Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan to facilitate capacity building and knowledge sharing.

The BGIS contains more than a million occurrence records of local species compiled by the department, its partner organisations, and scientific research and citizen science projects at present.

It is also linked to other databases in the information hub, which include the species database and multimedia database featuring information and photos of various species.

The new BGIS features a “search by area” function which the public can search not only by species name but also find local species based on geographical location.

Since the launch of the information hub in 2022, new data and information have been updated and added continuously, with over 10,000 visits recorded each month.

Source: Assainir, relancer et développer ensemble : les orientations du 18e gouvernement

The Labour & Welfare Bureau and the Labour Department today issued a paper to the Legislative Council’s Manpower Panel, proposing amendments to the Trade Unions Ordinance in relation to safeguarding national security.

The proposed amendments would strengthen the statutory powers of the Registrar of Trade Unions in supervising and regulating trade unions, and seek to improve the trade union regulatory regime.

The Government said this would allow it to better fulfil its duty of safeguarding national security under the Hong Kong National Security Law (NSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO).

It added that the amendments address the current situation with regard to local trade unions, complement the NSL and the SNSO, while protecting employees’ rights and their freedom to form and join trade unions pursuant to the Basic Law, the Hong Kong Bill of Rights Ordinance, and relevant international conventions.

Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun said: “Apart from enhancing the mechanism for safeguarding national security, the proposed amendments will improve the trade union regulatory regime and promote the healthy development of trade unions, while giving due regard to the freedom and right of Hong Kong residents to form and join trade unions.

“I look forward to LegCo’s support for the proposed amendments.”

Members of the Labour Advisory Board expressed support for the major proposed amendments when the Labour Department consulted the board at a meeting on January 22.

The Government will consult the Manpower Panel on February 24 and plans to introduce an amendment bill to LegCo in April.

Source: Assainir, relancer et développer ensemble : les orientations du 18e gouvernement

The third round of the Basic Law & National Security Law Test in the 2024-25 school year is scheduled for April 12, the Education Bureau (EDB) announced today.

 

Applications can be made from Friday until March 6.

 

The target participants for this round of the test are bachelor’s degree holders, or students who will attain a bachelor’s degree in 2025 or 2026, who plan to join or change to another secondary school, primary school or kindergarten to take up a teaching post.

 

Limited places for the test will be available on a first come, first served basis.

 

Those who have obtained a pass result in a test organised by the EDB, the Civil Service Bureau or a recruiting department grade, will not be accepted to sit for it again.

 

The fourth and fifth sittings of the test will be held in June and July. Relevant arrangements will be announced in due course.

Source: Assainir, relancer et développer ensemble : les orientations du 18e gouvernement

The Trade & Industry Department will enhance the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading & Domestic Sales (BUD Fund) and the SME Export Marketing Fund (EMF), and the new measures will apply to applications received from 0.00am, March 14.

The department said the new measures aim to provide support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in a more focused and sustainable manner.

The 2024 Policy Address and the 2025-26 Budget have allocated a combined total of $2.5 billion to the funding schemes supporting SMEs to help them cope with the various uncertainties in the global economy.

Under the new measures, each applicant enterprise will be able to submit one “Easy BUD” application every three months, instead of every six months at present, along with the expansion of the funding scope to cover the establishment of an online sales platform.

Furthermore, to assist enterprises in restructuring their business operations in the face of rising trade protectionism and geopolitical tensions, professional fees associated with the establishment of new business entities in eligible markets will be listed in the BUD Fund’s scope of funding.

To focus its limited resources to equip enterprises for upgrading and transformation, the Government will consolidate the EMF into the BUD Fund upon expiry of the former’s special measures on June 30, 2026. Enterprises may then undertake promotional activities in the context of upgrading and transformation to attain synergy.

At the same time, to ensure the two funding schemes’ financial sustainability, the Government will adjust the funding ceiling and matching ratio, and rationalise other parameters of the two funds, such that they will be utilised in the most productive manner.

All the new measures will apply to funding requests received from 0.00am, March 14.

Source: Assainir, relancer et développer ensemble : les orientations du 18e gouvernement

Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau today visited a large-scale Hong Kong enterprise in Dongguan and met the city’s deputy mayor.

Mr Yau began a two-day visit to Guangdong yesterday, and travelled to Dongguan from Guangzhou earlier today.

On arriving in Dongguan, he toured the premises of a Hong Kong firm specialising in handbags and leather goods to learn about its operations, and about new developments in e-commerce on the Mainland.

He was also shown around the firm’s e-commerce live streaming centre, the largest of its kind in Dongguan, and briefed on the use of live streaming in e-commerce marketing. 

Stressing the enormous potential of e-commerce in promoting trade, Mr Yau said Hong Kong enterprises can learn from their Mainland counterparts to gain a foothold in the Mainland e-commerce market and grasp the unlimited opportunities it presents.

Mr Yau held a lunch meeting with Deputy Mayor of the Dongguan Municipal People’s Government Liu Guangbin, who spoke to him about the city’s latest trade and economic developments, before concluding his visit.

He will return to Hong Kong this evening.

Source: MOFA response to false claims by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson regarding Taiwan and its president

Official Website for APEC 2025 KOREA Launched on February 20

1. The official website for APEC 2025 KOREA was launched on February 20, 2025, ahead of the First Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM1), which will take place in Gyeongju from February 24 to March 9. 2. The website (www.apec2025.kr) features an introduction to APEC as well as the theme and priorities of APEC 2025 KOREA, relevant notices, and information on its host cities including Gyeongju, Jeju, Incheon and Busan. It will serve as a key platform for sharing information on SOMs and sectoral ministerial meeti…

Source: MOFA response to false claims by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson regarding Taiwan and its president

Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean,
Ambassador Chan Heng Chee,
Director Choi Shing Kwok,
Distinguished Guests,
Good morning.

It is a great pleasure to speak at the Singapore Lecture, a world-renowned platform for its prestige and tradition.

I would like to begin by extending my sincere appreciation to ISEAS for organizing today’s event.

I understand that the name “Singapore” originates from the Sanskrit word Singapura, meaning “City of Lions.”

Typically, lions evoke the image of a large powerful body, sharp teeth and claws.

Yet, their true strength does not lie in individual physical prowess, but rather in their sharp judgment and solid teamwork.

In my view, Singapore embodies these very qualities of lions.

Since its independence in 1965, Singapore’s public and private sectors have worked seamlessly together to drive innovation and open economy.

By strategically choosing its top priorities and engaging in what Singapore can excel, the nation has achieved stellar growth.

Singapore has now emerged as a leading knowledge hub of Asia with world-class research caliber, driving the development of cutting-edge sectors of the future and shaping relevant norms.

Singapore’s success story serves as a keen reminder to its contemporaries around the world of the importance of indomitable will and the audacious embrace of challenges.

We Koreans have also risen above the adversities of war and poverty, achieving growth and prosperity with a strong belief in a better future and the grit to realize it – the ‘can do’ spirit of Koreans. This is why, perhaps more than anyone else, we feel a special bond with Singapore.

Ever since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1975, Korea and Singapore have intensified their cooperation spanning political, economic, social and cultural spheres, offering mutual support along the way.

When the multilateral free trade system based on the World Trade Organization (WTO) met its limits, Korea and Singapore announced the conclusion of negotiations for a bilateral Free Trade Agreement in 2004 which helped catalyze regional trade and served as a crucial stepping stone towards the announcement of the conclusion of the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Agreement two years later.

Today, our two nations are leveraging advanced technologies and an innovation-driven industrial ecosystem to proactively address global economic uncertainties and polycrisis, while continuing to engage in strategic cooperation.

At yesterday’s summit meeting, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and I agreed to establish a Strategic Partnership between Korea and Singapore next year, the year which will mark the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic ties.

In the years ahead, our partnership will grow even more robust, extending beyond our bilateral ties, providing a powerful impetus to ASEAN-ROK relations.

In 2022, Korea and Singapore also signed the Digital Partnership Agreement to proactively gear up for cooperation in the digital economy era.

In September last year, ASEAN launched the negotiations on the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) among its member states.

I look forward to Korea and Singapore, as digital powerhouses, contributing to the process of building ASEAN’s digital ecosystem by continuing the close collaboration.

Distinguished Guests,

In November 2022, at the Phnom Penh ASEAN-ROK Summit, I expressed my commitment to building a free, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region through solidarity and cooperation with ASEAN.

I made this announcement at the ASEAN-related Summit first, which was a month before the official launch of Korea’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. This bespeaks the significance that the Korean government places on its relationship with ASEAN.

Korea’s vision on the Indo-Pacific is in line with the objectives of ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific: to safeguard peace, stability, prosperity, and a rules-based order in the region.

In the speech I gave on Korea’s National Liberation Day last August, I announced the August 15 Unification Doctrine, putting forth my vision and strategy for a unified Korea.

This doctrine reflects my commitment to strengthening Korea’s value system with freedom at its core, my commitment to broadly communicating a message of hope to North Korea on what unification based on freedom can bring, and my commitment to increasing solidarity with the global community in realizing this vision.

As I stand before you today, I would like to give you an overview of what Korea plans to do to promote freedom, peace, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, and how a free unified Korean Peninsula that we envision will contribute to this end.

First, let me share Korea’s endeavors to promote freedom in the region.

The history of humanity has been nothing short of an evolution towards greater freedom.

Wherever freedom flourished, creativity and innovation have thrived.

I am sure that each of you here can also appreciate how valuable it is to have freedom from coercion, freedom from unilateral changes to the status quo, freedom from fake news and disinformation that distort public opinion.

We vividly recall how the support of the international community helped the ROK defend its freedom, when the survival of the country hung by a thread during the Korean War.

This is why Koreans have a strong belief in and commitment to a free and democratic system that safeguards individual freedom.

Based on this commitment, starting this year, the Korean government will support development cooperation projects that promote democracy in Indo-Pacific countries.

If realized, a unified Korean Peninsula that is free and open will be a historic achievement expanding the value of freedom to a great extent.

A unified Korean Peninsula will also be a blessing that brings long-sought freedom to the 26 million North Korean people suffering from poverty and tyranny.

Moreover, a Korea with greater freedom, will play a bigger role in enhancing the freedom and human rights in the region and beyond.

Second, allow me to highlight Korea’s efforts for peace in the region.

It is an agreement of the international community and a fundamental principle of the international order that any conflict should be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means, not through armed attacks.

However, as we are witnessing what is happening in Ukraine and the Middle East today, the reality of global politics largely deviates from the principle.

It is difficult to assure that the reality in the Indo-Pacific tomorrow would be different from that in Ukraine or the Middle East today.

In this region, tension and conflicts have occurred largely in the maritime domain.

Taking this into account, Korea has actively contributed to strengthening the “power of cooperation” with the aim to safeguard maritime peace in the Indo-Pacific.

We are actively participating in joint exercises held in ASEAN countries, while increasing exchanges and training programs for maritime law-enforcement agencies including the Navy.

Last year, the Korean Coast Guard dispatched an emergency response team for the first time in its history to help clean up the oil spill in the waters off the Philippines.

We are also transferring decommissioned vessels from our Navy and Coast Guard to countries in the region to support capacity-building efforts in maritime security.

Going forward, we will take on initiatives to help island nations in the region build stronger real-time monitoring capabilities to combat illegal fishing activities.

Furthermore, we will make endeavors to enhance international partnerships for maritime surveillance and information sharing.

A free and unified Korean Peninsula, if realized, would dramatically advance peace not only on the Peninsula but also throughout the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

The absence of North Korea’s nuclear threats would lead to a stronger international non-proliferation regime, which would tremendously boost efforts aimed at building peace and trust among countries both within and across regions.

The realization of a free and unified Korean Peninsula would also help substantially reduce the demand for illicit trafficking in the region’s waters, and ensure a more secure and freer order of navigation.

Third, let me outline Korea’s efforts to contribute to regional prosperity.

Just as Korea and Singapore have thrived through the international free trade order, the steady fostering of an open economic environment is essential to the continued prosperity of the Indo-Pacific.

To that end, Korea will spearhead the efforts to further revitalize the existing multilateral free trade regime.

Through the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), we will actively engage in efforts to advance free trade.

By hosting a successful APEC Summit in Gyeongju next year, we will foster an open and vibrant framework of economic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Notably, Korea will scale up its Official Development Assistance in digital development, education, climate response, smart cities, and transportation infrastructure, in order to help ASEAN countries located at the heart of the Indo-Pacific build a foundation for stable growth.

We will continue to develop collaborative projects to facilitate the region’s advancement, in partnership with not only regional countries like the United States, Japan, Australia, and Canada, but also partners outside the region that share our values such as the UK, France, and Germany.

This coming December, Korea will host the Indo-Pacific High-Level Forum, in which countries from ASEAN, the Pacific Islands, the Indian Ocean and Europe will participate to discuss ways to revitalize cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

A unified Korean Peninsula that is free and open will also create a strong impetus for economic development and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

An open Korean Peninsula will serve as a link connecting the Pacific, the Korean Peninsula, and the Eurasian continent, unlocking a vast market.

Across the energy, logistics, transportation, infrastructure and tourism sectors, the demand for vigorous investment and cooperation will soar.

In the coming years, Korea will generate renewed momentum for the public and private sectors to engage in the International Korean Peninsula Forum, while redoubling its efforts with the international community to realize a unified Korean Peninsula that is free and open.

I would like to sincerely thank Singapore and many other ASEAN countries for their support of the August 15 Unification Doctrine and kindly ask for your continued attention and encouragement.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

The FIFTH article of the 1967 ASEAN Declaration resonates deeply with us.

It states, “through joint efforts and sacrifices,” ASEAN will “secure for their peoples and for posterity the blessings of peace, freedom and prosperity.”

ASEAN was founded fifty-seven years ago on the noble spirit of its pioneers, which has been the driving force behind the ASEAN of today. In that same spirit, I hope that the hard work and sweat of all of you here, as well as all ASEAN communities, will secure a legacy of hope and a brighter future for future generations.

As ASEAN’s close and true friend, the Republic of Korea will always stand with you in that journey.

Thank you.

Source: MOFA response to false claims by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson regarding Taiwan and its president

[Unofficial Translation]

Your Excellency Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, the people of Singapore,

I am indeed grateful for the warm hospitality extended to me.

It is a great pleasure to make a state visit to Singapore, a key partner of Korea within ASEAN, ahead of next year’s 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

During this visit, I have been able to witness how wholeheartedly Singapore is stepping forward to embrace an even brighter future under Prime Minister Wong’s outstanding leadership.

Singapore and Korea have truly been steadily nurturing the ties of friendship and cooperation over the past half-century – since formally establishing diplomatic ties in 1975.

Despite the disadvantage of having scarce natural resources, our two countries have emerged as global economic powerhouses by cultivating talented human resources and building high-tech and financial hubs.

At the forefront in Asia’s advancement and prosperity, the two nations have established their standing as frontrunners in AI, digital technology, the green economy and other future-oriented sectors.

Today, Prime Minister Wong and I had in-depth discussions on how to further deepen the bonds of friendship and strengthen cooperation between our countries in a forward-looking, mutually beneficial manner.

First, as we prepare to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2025, we agreed to establish a Strategic Partnership next year – a meaningful first step in preparing for the next half-century.

To this end, our two countries will enhance our strategic cooperation in key areas.

In particular, we will deepen collaboration in the fields of AI and other cutting-edge technologies as well as startups, which will help drive our future growth.

The MOU on Technological Cooperation and MOU on Start-ups and SMEs Cooperation signed today will serve as a driving force.

Moreover, we will enhance R&D collaboration so that we can jointly respond to food crises, pandemics and other global challenges resulting from abnormal climate phenomena.

Second, in response to the growing instability in the global economy, Prime Minister Wong and I agreed to further strengthen concerted efforts on strategic materials and energy supply chains.

In tune with the bilateral Supply Chain Partnership Arrangement signed on this occasion, we agreed to enhance supply chain cooperation in the biohealth, energy and hi-tech industries as well as to jointly respond to supply chain disruptions.

Korea is the world’s third-largest LNG importer, and Singapore is a global LNG trading hub. Accordingly, the MOU on LNG Cooperation signed today will contribute significantly to building a stable international energy supply chain.

Third, Prime Minister Wong and I agreed to strengthen the institutional foundation for bilateral people-to-people exchanges and trade.

We welcomed the boosting of our people-to-people exchanges, with over 900,000 people traveling between our two countries last year. We also agreed to revise the Air Services Agreement, which took effect in 1972, by next year.

In addition, with a shared understanding of the need for synergy to cultivate talented human resources, we agreed to identify projects for cooperation on education utilizing AI and digital technologies.

Moreover, we welcomed the fact that the Extradition Treaty signed on this occasion will enable swift cooperation on investigating, arresting and extraditing fugitive criminals overseas. We agreed to further strengthen bilateral judicial cooperation.

Lastly, Prime Minister Wong and I agreed to work together closely on regional and international issues.

Prime Minister Wong and I shared the view that the international community will never tolerate North Korea’s unlawful nuclear development or reckless provocations. We concurred on the need to work together closely to ensure that the international community sends a clear and unified message to North Korea at the upcoming ASEAN-related Summits.

Prime Minister Wong expressed his full support for upgrading the ASEAN-Republic of Korea Dialogue Relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership this year to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the Relations.

In this regard, we two leaders agreed to proactively work together toward the successful implementation of the Korea-ASEAN Solidarity Initiative.

Over the past half century, Singapore has been a companion to Korea, striving together for national development. Today, Singapore and Korea are key partners as we pioneer a thriving future.

We will make every effort to faithfully implement the matters discussed at today’s summit and thoroughly prepare for next year’s 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude once again to Prime Minister Wong and the government and people of Singapore for the heartwarming welcome and hospitality.

Thank you.

Source: MOFA response to false claims by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson regarding Taiwan and its president

[Unofficial Translation]

Your Excellency President Bongbong Marcos, distinguished business leaders from both countries,

It is wonderful that the Korea-Philippines Business Forum is being held here in Manila, the Pearl of the Orient and a gateway linking Asia and the Pacific.

Korea and the Philippines possess a truly special relationship. The Philippines was the first ASEAN country to establish diplomatic relations with Korea back in 1949. When the Korean War broke out in 1950, the Philippines was not only the first Asian country to join our side in the fight, but also sent more troops than any other Asian nation. In this sense, Korea and the Philippines are old friends and partners bound by blood.

Having stood together to defend freedom and democracy, our two countries have also worked closely together throughout the process of economic development. In the Philippines, Korean businesses have invested in its key industries such as electronics, shipbuilding and semiconductors, thus contributing to the country’s economic growth and job creation.

By expanding trade through such trade platforms as the Korea-ASEAN FTA and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, Korea has become one of the Philippines’ top five trading partners.

Thanks to the active efforts of business leaders from both countries, our bilateral cooperation has now broadened to encompass economic and social sectors, ranging from the defense industry to cultural content.

Distinguished business leaders,

This year is significant as it marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Korea and the Philippines. Moreover, the Philippines is a key partner in Korea’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Korea-ASEAN Solidarity Initiative.

At the summit held this morning, we agreed to upgrade our two countries’ relationship to a Strategic Partnership. Korea will use this as an opportunity to further enhance strategic economic cooperation with the Philippines.

First, our two countries will work together to prepare for the “nuclear renaissance” era. Nuclear power is indispensable when it comes to providing the stable supply of electricity needed to develop hi-tech industries while also achieving carbon neutrality.

Recently, the Philippines has begun preparations to reintroduce nuclear power. By signing the MOU on the Feasibility Study on the Rehabilitation of Bataan Nuclear Power Plant on this occasion, our bilateral cooperation on nuclear power is expected to go into full gear.

I am confident that Team Korea will be the optimal nuclear power partner for the Philippines.

Second, though infrastructure cooperation between our two countries remains active, I’m pinning even greater expectations on the potential for future development.

The Philippines is pushing ahead with large-scale infrastructure development policies like Build Better More. In order to work together with the Philippines on its key infrastructure projects, Korea agreed to lend support through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund.

In particular, Korea plans to provide 900 million dollars for the construction of the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network and more than 1 billion dollars for the PGN Sea Bridge Project. I hope that outstanding Korean businesses will be able to contribute more to expanding infrastructure such as roads and bridges in the Philippines.

Third, we will strengthen supply chain cooperation on critical raw materials. The Philippines is a resource-rich country – indeed, it is the world’s second-largest producer of nickel. As Korea has hi-tech industries spanning semiconductors, batteries and others as well as excellent materials-related technology, our two countries can work together in numerous supply chain areas.

By signing the MOU for Supply Chains in Critical Raw Materials on this occasion, our two countries will further strengthen collaboration in exploring critical minerals and developing related technologies as well as providing mutual assistance in the event of disruptions in raw material supply chains.

In addition, the Crisis Response Network was established to help implement the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework Supply Chain Agreement, with Korea serving as the inaugural chair. I hope that Korea and the Philippines will be able to work together closely through this network.

Lastly, we shouldn’t overlook agricultural cooperation. With geopolitical risks expanding and abnormal climate events occurring more frequently, concerns over food security are on the rise in many countries.

On the back of the MOU on Agricultural Cooperation signed in 2018, our two countries are already collaborating closely on crop seed distribution, smart farms, rural development and various other projects.

We will further expand cooperation on pesticides, fertilizers and farming machinery to increase agricultural productivity going forward. In particular, we will work together to quickly establish a complex for manufacturing Korean agricultural machinery. I look forward to the day when this complex will develop and supply machinery that befits the Philippines’ natural environment and native crops.

Distinguished business leaders,

Koreans comprised the largest share of foreign visitors to the Philippines last year. I understand that Koreans frequently visiting the country include not only tourists, but also businesspeople.

According to a historical record from 200 years ago, when storm-tossed Korean merchants barely managed to reach the Philippines, they were able to return home safely thanks to the help from its local residents.

It seems that this meaningful historical incident holds the key as to why so many Koreans visit the Philippines. I was also able to feel the warm hospitality and friendship of the people here during this visit.

Korea and the Philippines will continue to protect the values of democracy and a market economy and work together for mutual prosperity.

Distinguished business leaders from both countries,

I am very grateful to you for spending your valuable time here today. I hope this Forum will serve as a precious chance to build our friendship and expand opportunities for cooperation.

Thank you.

Source: MOFA response to false claims by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson regarding Taiwan and its president

[Unofficial Translation]

My fellow Koreans,

Honorable members of the Armed Forces and distinguished guests,

I sincerely congratulate you on the 76th anniversary of our Armed Forces Day.

I thank the soldiers who are protecting our country and its people with thoroughness and precision, even at this very moment.

I also express my gratitude to the deployed troops who are safeguarding world peace and enhancing the status of the Republic of Korea.

Furthermore, I extend my respect and gratitude to the patriots who defended free Republic of Korea with their blood and sweat, as well as to the founding elders, veterans, and reservists.

To the military families who are giving their unwavering support to our service members,

And to the United States Forces Korea, who stand shoulder to shoulder on the front lines of the ROK-U.S. alliance, and the soldiers of the United Nations Command who are dedicated to the peace of the Republic of Korea, I extend my deepest gratitude.

Dear fellow Koreans,

This year’s Armed Forces Day holds even more special meaning.

Today, the Strategic Command, which will significantly strengthen our defense capabilities, has been established.

Our government has made the establishment of the Strategic Command a key national task to deter North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats and to respond strongly to provocations.

There have been many challenges along the way.

However, based on the ever-stronger ROK-U.S. alliance and our continuous efforts, we have finally established the Strategic Command, which integrates our military’s advanced conventional capabilities with the United States’ extended deterrence capabilities.

Going forward, the Strategic Command will become a key unit that steadfastly protects the nation and its people from North Korea’s nuclear and weapons of mass destruction threats.

Dear fellow Koreans,

The Republic of Korea’s present has been built upon the dedication and sacrifices of our armed forces.

When the North Korean communists started the Korean War on June 25th, 1950, our military fought bravely, shedding blood to protect the free Republic of Korea.

Even now, they stand firm against the constant threats and provocations from North Korea, carrying out the important mission of safeguarding the nation and its people.

In times of national disasters and crises, they lead the way in protecting the lives and safety of our fellow Koreans.

The passionate patriotism and loyalty of our armed forces have become the solid foundation for the freedom and prosperity we enjoy today.

Everyone, please give a big round of applause to the men and women of our armed forces.

Valued members of our armed forces,

During the Korean War, our military fought with virtually no modern weaponry. Today, we stand as a global leader in defense technology, having independently developed cutting-edge fighter jets, reconnaissance satellites, and high-precision missiles. We also build state-of-the-art warships and submarines.

Our tanks, self-propelled artillery, and air defense systems are now renowned worldwide, having been exported to nations across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. These achievements have shown the prowess of our defense industry.

K-Defense Industry has now become a ‘national strategic industry’ that robustly supports both national security and the economy.

The dedication of our soldiers to world peace is also remarkable.

They contribute to common prosperity by engaging in peacekeeping and reconstruction activities around the globe.

The efforts of our military play a significant role in helping the Republic of Korea emerge as a pivotal global state.

Fellow Koreans and service members of our armed forces,

We have walked the path of freedom and prosperity and the path towards world peace. However, the North Korean regime continues to insist on a path of regression and downfall.

They pursue only hereditary power succession, turning a blind eye to the miserable lives of their people, and threatening us with nuclear weapons and missiles.

After committing despicable types of provocations like sending trash balloons and GPS jamming attacks, they have now gone so far as to claim a “two hostile states” theory, even denying the possibility of reunification.

Furthermore, by engaging in illegal arms deals with Russia, North Korea is defying international norms and threatening peace on the Korean Peninsula and globally.

Our military will immediately retaliate against North Korea’s provocations based on its robust combat capabilities and solid readiness posture.

If North Korea attempts to use nuclear weapons, it will face the resolute and overwhelming response of our military and the ROK-U.S. alliance.

That day will be the end of the North Korean regime.

The North Korean regime must abandon the delusion that nuclear weapons will protect them.

Dear fellow Koreans,

Since the Washington Declaration in April last year, the ROK-U.S. alliance has been upgraded to a true nuclear-based alliance.

Through the ROK-U.S. Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG), we are building a fully integrated extended deterrence between our two nations.

For the first time in over 40 years, a U.S. strategic nuclear submarine has visited the Republic of Korea, and a B-52 strategic bomber has landed on the Korean Peninsula for the first time.

The United States’ strong commitment to extended deterrence is being realized through action.

Our government, based on the solid ROK-U.S. alliance, will further strengthen security cooperation between the Republic of Korea, the United States, and Japan and closely align with the international community to solidify our security posture even more firmly.

Fellow Koreans and service members of our armed forces,

With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine ongoing and the situation in the Middle East deteriorating, the global security environment is rapidly changing.

In this context, to become an even stronger military, we must achieve defense innovation based on advanced science and technology.

In May of last year, the government launched the Presidential Defense Innovation Committee to significantly enhance our capabilities to respond to North Korean threats.

We will further strengthen the field of defense research and development to lead future battlefields in areas such as AI-based unmanned and manned hybrid systems, space, cyber, and electronic warfare.

Additionally, we will drastically shorten the procedures for developing and acquiring weapon systems.

Building a strong military begins with the morale of our soldiers.

We will continue to improve all aspects of their working environment, including food, clothing, shelter, and medical systems, so that soldiers can take pride in their service and focus on their duties.

We will ensure that their dedication to the nation is treated fairly, so they can wear their uniforms with pride.

Our military also has a part to play.

Young soldiers must develop a firm sense of patriotism and understanding of the enemy.

Please do your best to ensure that soldiers unite with a strong spirit and camaraderie and are trained through realistic education.

Respected fellow Koreans, proud service members of our armed forces, and distinguished guests,

False peace, based on the enemy’s goodwill, is nothing but a mirage.

History has proven that the only way to safeguard peace is by strengthening our power so the enemy cannot dare challenge us.

Strong security and a powerful military are built together with the people.

Please continue to give your unwavering support to ensure our military can dedicate itself to the nation without hesitation.

As the Commander-in-Chief, I trust our men and women of our forces wholeheartedly.

Once again, I congratulate you on Armed Forces Day and wish you abundant glory and blessings in your future endeavors.

Thank you.