Defense chief nominee Ahn Gyu-back faces parliamentary confirmation hearing

One of the five nominees questioned on Tuesday was defense chief nominee Ahn Gyu-back, who could become the first civilian defense minister since 1961, breaking with a tradition of retired military generals taking the post.

Our defense correspondent Kim Bo-kyoung tells us more.

Five-term lawmaker Ahn Gyu-back faced lawmakers' questions on Tuesday, during the parliamentary confirmation hearing for the post of defense minister.

Nominated as the first "civilian" defense chief in 64 years, Ahn is widely expected to lead the transformation of the military that was mobilized during the martial law period.

As to fulfill such expectations, he vowed to rebuild the military to earn people's trust.

"What we must do now is to hold those accountable for the illegal martial law, correct the wrongdoings of the previous administration, strengthen civilian control to ensure that our military does not become a tool for private power, and rebuild a "military of the people."

He added he would reform the military by boldly incorporating advanced technologies, and reorganize the structure to deal with the falling number of troops.

Regarding North Korea, he said ministry will support the government's efforts to establish peace on the Peninsula, while pledging to seek sustainable peace based on strength.

"I will militarily support the government's efforts to establish peace on the Korean Peninsula. While establishing deterrence based on immense military power, a door for dialogue to ease tensions and build trust should be left open"

Ahn was also asked about his views on relationships with allies and neighboring countries.

He stated that the Seoul-Washington alliance should be strengthened, and that any discourse on U.S. Forces Korea troop reduction and Washington's thoughts on strategic flexibility should be closely consulted between both parties, as it is not something that one side can unilaterally assert.

In terms of China, Ahn said he would seek a cooperative relationship, focusing on national interests.

"Regarding China, we need to take into account various factors such as Northern diplomacy, market expansion, and economic interests."

Ahn added that the Lee Jae Myung administration will pursue the transfer of the wartime operational control from the U.S. to South Korea based on a strong combined defense posture, and the two countries' agreement on conditions followed by their mutual fulfillment.

Kim Bo-kyoung, Arirang News.