South Korea pledges major defense and aerospace investments by 2030

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has committed to making "bold" financial investments in defense and aerospace research and development as part of a strategic initiative to elevate the country's global military standing. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition, President Lee outlined an ambitious vision to position South Korea among the world's top four defense powers by 2030 through unprecedented budgetary allocations.

Unprecedented Research and Development Funding

President Lee announced that his administration would "inject an unprecedented level of budget that surpasses expectations into defense and aerospace R&D" to secure critical future technologies and advanced weapon systems. The funding initiative will specifically target the development of domestically produced technologies, components, and materials—including specialized semiconductors—to establish greater self-sufficiency in defense applications and support independent space development capabilities.

Domestic Technology Development Focus

The comprehensive investment strategy emphasizes creating homegrown technological solutions rather than relying on foreign suppliers. This approach aims to build a self-reliant defense industrial base capable of producing essential components and materials internally, thereby strengthening national security while reducing dependency on international supply chains for critical defense technologies.

International Defense Cooperation Efforts

Complementing the domestic investment plan, South Korea is simultaneously pursuing expanded international defense partnerships. President Lee's chief of staff, Kang Hoon-sik, embarked on a diplomatic mission to Europe to strengthen defense industry collaborations and increase South Korea's arms exports. During his visit, Kang is delivering personal letters from President Lee to several European nations, seeking to deepen defense cooperation and expand South Korea's presence in the global defense market.