Seoul: President Yoon Suk Yeol has called for decisive countermeasures in response to the “illegal” military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, warning that the growing alliance between Pyongyang and Moscow poses a significant security risk to South Korea. In a parliamentary address delivered by Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, Yoon emphasized the need to strengthen security and defense as North Korea reportedly aids Russia in its military endeavors in Ukraine.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Yoon highlighted the current international security dynamics and the military collaboration between North Korea and Russia as substantial threats to South Korea’s national security. He pledged a thorough examination of potential scenarios to develop effective countermeasures. Additionally, Yoon stressed the importance of South Korea’s reinforced deterrence against North Korea’s nuclear threats through its alliance with the United States and trilateral security cooperation with Japan.
Yoon also committed
to boosting support for North Korean defectors and promoting awareness of human rights issues in North Korea, aiming to foster international dialogues on the matter. He expressed his desire to enhance global understanding and support for a vision of a free and unified Korea.
The President’s address outlined a budget proposal for the coming year, amounting to 677.4 trillion won (US$509.7 billion), marking a 3.2 percent increase from the previous year. Significantly, it was the first time in 11 years that a sitting president did not personally deliver the budget speech. The proposal includes cuts in unnecessary projects, aligning with a “sound fiscal policy,” while prioritizing welfare for vulnerable groups and fostering economic growth.
Yoon highlighted the economic challenges South Korea faces due to the global complex crisis, including high interest rates, inflation, and uncertainties in financial markets. He outlined the government’s reform agenda focusing on health care, pensions, labor, and education to
tackle issues stemming from a low birth rate and an aging population.
The President also urged the National Assembly to support the creation of the Ministry of Population Strategy, a proposed entity to address the demographic crisis, and called for swift passage of necessary legislation, including the Government Organization Act.
During the plenary session, National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik conveyed “strong regret” over Yoon’s absence from the address, emphasizing the public’s potential disappointment. Woo criticized the President’s decision, labeling it an infringement on people’s rights. Yoon’s decision to skip the opening session of the 22nd Assembly in September was also noted as the first absence by an incumbent president since 1987.