바람직한 21세기 군사력 건설의 방향

Abstract

This study begins with historical overview of how the ROK forces quickly become one of the strongest powerhouse within such a short period of time. Korea now celebrates its 60th Anniversary of founding its armed force and determines to be a more advanced military that can contribute to build a more secure world. The question is how the ROK can transform its military force for meeting the various but difficult demands of the future. It is not easy to get consensus on what constitutes the military power for the 21st Century? This study suggests that strategic vision and public will to pursue strategic plan of the government must be included when we construct a desirable military power for the future. This study also outlines ten points that need to be revised in order for making ‘Defense Reform 2020’ a reliable road map for the future of the ROK forces. The ROK MND is supposed to announce the revised version soon. However, it must consider that audiences are not necessarily limited within the border. The MND must clearly outline its vision and principles to the people around the world on how it sees its posture in 20 years and how it would help the allies and other concerned parties to build a safe regional order together with global partners. Finally, this study ends with several observations on what seems to be the best option for each service and how they need to coordinate in terms of budget allocation and priority setting.