South Korea defence ambitions may exceed capabilities

Significance

It also benefits from policies that heavily favour the domestic arms industry. This has resulted in a well-equipped modern military and a high degree of self-reliance in equipping it. However, this model may be unsustainable.

Impacts

• Seoul will likely attempt to expand armaments collaboration with other countries to gain additional resources, technologies and markets.
• China's military modernisation is an increasing concern, including in the context of potential war with China's ally, North Korea.
• Threats from North Korea make air and missile defence the top procurement priorities.