By Diplomacy Journal Lee Jon-young
President Yoon Suk-yeol presided over a ceremony marking the 76th anniversary of the ROK Armed Forces Day at Seoul International Airport on Oct. 1.
About 5,300 troops and 340 pieces of equipment participated in the ceremony, which began with the national anthem, followed by the presentation of the Strategic Command's unit flag, a feverish military ceremony, the presentation of medals and commendations, and a commemorative speech.
President Yoon presented the unit flag of the newly created Strategic Command to Strategic Command General Jin Young-seung, expressing his expectation that the unit will be a key force in countering North Korea's nuclear and WMD threats.
During the ceremony, President Yoon, along with the Minister of National Defense, presented medals and commendations to four meritorious soldiers and four units.
President Yoon praised the hard work of the ROK Armed Forces and its deployed soldiers, and emphasized that their dedication underpins the freedom and prosperity of the Republic of Korea.
He reiterated the importance of the ROK Armed Forces having strong combat capabilities and a firm readiness posture in the face of the ongoing threat from North Korea, and warned of a decisive response from the ROK-U.S. alliance in the event of North Korea's nuclear provocations. He also boasted of the ROK's globally recognized defense industry and vowed to grow into a stronger military based on defense innovation and advanced science and technology.
“Fake peace that relies on the goodwill of enemies is a mirage,” Yoon said, emphasizing that a strong national military is the only way to secure peace. The ceremony was followed by a homeland defense resolution ceremony, which included a sortie by F-15K fighter jets, tactical maneuvers by airborne forces, and a taekwondo demonstration by specialty soldiers. Finally, the ceremony concluded with the parade of foot and vehicle troops.
The event was attended by about 6,300 people, including military leaders, senior government officials, June 25 veterans, and national observers, to celebrate Armed Forces Day.
