Defense Minister nominee Kang Shin-chul said on September 3, “I am aware that there are various opinions and concerns regarding the government’s push to integrate the three military academies. I believe everyone shares a love for the military.”

Kang made the remarks while meeting with reporters upon his first arrival at the office of the National Assembly’s confirmation hearing preparation team, set up at the Defense Convention in Yongsan, Seoul, that morning. He added, “I will ensure that excellent talents are cultivated.” Kang arrived in a dark navy suit and tie. He is a graduate of the 46th class of the Korea Military Academy.

Kang stated, “The Army, Navy, and Air Force academies have accompanied the history of our Republic of Korea. Regardless of their past appearances, locations, or names, they were our nation’s military academies. The current academies are our nation’s military academies. The future academies will belong to no one but our Republic of Korea.”

Regarding the transition of wartime operational control authority, Kang said, “We will pursue it in a way that strengthens the ROK-U.S. alliance. The transition is possible because of the alliance. Without it, such a transition would not exist.”

On being nominated, Kang said, “I feel an indescribable weight. I am fully aware of how heavy the position of Defense Minister is, which is why I feel this way. However, I will fulfill my given mission.”

When asked if he was involved in the December 3 emergency martial law during his tenure as deputy commander of the ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command, Kang replied, “I believe the Presidential chief of staff has already provided a clear answer.”

This refers to a briefing by Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik last month, who explained, “According to the results of the Constitution-Respecting Task Force and the Ministry of National Defense’s audit, there was no involvement.”

In response to a question about how he would handle a conflict between his defense philosophy and that of the commander-in-chief, Kang said, “There are things that must not change even if they need to change, and things that must change even if they seem unchangeable. I will distinguish between the two and move forward in a way that truly embodies necessary change.”