Defense Chief Advocates Military Academy Integration Amid Controversy

• •Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul supports integrating military academies for future warfare readiness.
• •Opposition from alumni groups has delayed the integration plan's timeline.
• •A consultative group has been formed to consider diverse opinions on the integration proposal.

Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul has reiterated the necessity of integrating South Korea's military academies into a single institution, citing the need for reforms to prepare for future warfare. This statement follows a backlash from alumni and reserve forces against the proposed relocation of the Korea Military Academy from Seoul to Daejeon. The integration plan aims to establish the National Military Academy at Jaundae, a military training compound. Despite the pushback, Kang emphasized the importance of adapting military education to evolving security challenges. The government is considering retaining some facilities at the Navy and Air Force academies while potentially relocating the Army academy. The ministry has formed a consultative group to gather diverse opinions, including those opposed to the integration. The original timeline for finalizing the integration plan has been delayed due to the strong opposition from alumni groups.