Ahn Gyu-back

South Korean Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back faces accusations of army desertion over a 40-year-old gap in his military service record. His service period from 1983 to 1985 was 22 months, longer than the typical 14-month term for territorial defence soldiers at the time.

South Korea plans to train all members of its nearly 500,000-strong military to operate drones as a primary combat tool, aiming to integrate them alongside personal firearms. The initiative, announced by Minister of National Defense Ahn Gyu-back, includes equipping units with expendable drones and counter-drone weapons, inspired by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

South Korea's defense minister announced that all military personnel will be trained to use drones as part of a strategic overhaul. The move aims to equip soldiers with drone operation skills comparable to personal firearms, emphasizing the technology's role as a 'game changer on the battlefield'.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized strengthening military capabilities including nuclear and conventional weapons, while South Korea announced plans to expand its drone warfare forces in response to perceived threats. North Korea's recent weapons tests and South Korea's defense upgrades highlight escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

South Korea's Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back unveiled a roadmap for developing nuclear-powered submarines in May 2026. The Future Defense Strategy Committee, chaired by President Lee Jae Myung, published a basic plan for this development, but the article argues the initiative is misdirected.