South Korean Defense Minister, Shin Won Sik, met with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius at the Ministry of National Defense in Yongsan, Seoul, to congratulate Germany on its recent admission into the U.S.-led U.N. Command (UNC) as its 18th official member state.
According to the Ministry of National Defense, Shin emphasized Germany’s traditional role as a close ally that significantly contributed to South Korea’s post-war reconstruction by sending a medical support team after the Korean War. He hoped that the relationship between the two countries, which share values encompassing human rights, rule of law, and liberal democracy, would see further progress.
Shin highlighted the successful completion of Germany’s accession to the UNC, noting the strong collaboration among South Korea, Germany, and the UNC throughout the process. He appreciated Germany’s commitment to promoting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
Shin also pointed out that Germany’s membership introduces a valuable new partner for South Korea and the UNC in addressing North Korea’s threats. With Germany’s inclusion, the UNC now has 18 member countries, up from 17.
Shin and Pistorius agreed to ramp up solidarity and cooperation between South Korea and UNC member countries, including regularizing the Defense Ministers’ meeting of South Korea and UN Member States to promote peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region.
The two ministers highly valued the active participation of their countries’ militaries in multilateral joint exercises such as the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) and the Pitch Black exercise. They agreed to further enhance defense and military cooperation in various areas, including the Indo-Pacific strategy, cybersecurity, and technological collaboration.
The two ministers also expressed grave concern over Russia’s deepening military ties with North Korea and agreed that the international community, including South Korea and Germany, must work closely together.
They specifically noted that military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has elevated North Korea’s status as a major security threat to the Indo-Pacific region, Europe, and the broader international community.
Shin strongly condemned North Korea’s recent balloon launches and urged Germany to support South Korea’s policy towards North Korea actively.
“The two ministers agreed to maintain close communication on major security issues and to continue developing defense cooperation between the two countries,” said the official from The Ministry of National Defense.