On December 3 of last year, the shock of martial law continues to reverberate across the nation. Despite this, efforts to identify challenges and discuss ideas for the sustainable development of South Korea must carry on.

The Institute of International Studies cordially invites you to a colloquium on the theme of "Transforming into a New and Strong Korean Military." We are honored to host Lieutenant General Kang Geonjak, a former Defense Reform Secretary, who will deliver a keynote speech titled "Conditions for a Strong Military." Following the presentation, we will engage in discussions.

Though the Korean military is outwardly ranked as the world's fifth strongest, it faces numerous internal challenges, including frequent military coups and political involvement, a command structure that has never held wartime operational control, remnants of Japanese military culture, the nuclear threat from North Korea, and the population cliff. Can the Korean military truly serve as the cornerstone of national security, ensuring self-reliance and prosperity for South Korea in the face of these monumental challenges?

This event seeks to explore the future vision of the Korean military and discuss new directions for national security. We would be delighted by your attendance to enhance the occasion with your participation.

<Event Details>

• Event Name: The 6th Institute of International Studies Colloquium

• Topic: Transforming into a New and Strong Korean Military

• Date: Wednesday, April 23, 2025, 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM

• Venue: Yeongwon Hall, Asia Center (Room 210, Building 101), Seoul National University

• Hosted by: Institute of International Studies, Seoul National University

• Sponsored by: Law Firm LAWVAX

<Speaker Profile>

Kang Geonjak

Graduate of the 45th Class, Korea Military Academy, Reserve Army Lieutenant General

2016–2017: Chief of Operations, ROK-US Combined Forces Command/UN Command

2018: Commander of the 28th Infantry Division

2018–2021: National Crisis Management Center Director and Defense Reform Secretary, Blue House

2021: Commander of the 6th Corps

2022–2023: Commander of the Army Education Command and Head of the Army Future Innovation Task Force

2023–2024: Visiting Research Fellow, Korea Institute for Defense Analyses

2023–Present: Advisor, LAWVAX

2024–Present: Honorary Professor, Army College

Contact Information:
☎ 02-880-6311
✉ ciscis@snu.ac.kr

We look forward to your valuable participation.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Institute of International Studies, Seoul National University