section 1 national security strategy
the Park administration is implementing its national security strategy to realize a “New era of hope” in
the security sector. the government intends to push ahead with its “trust-Building Process on the Korean
Peninsula” on the foundations of a robust defense strategy and trust-based diplomatic relations, thereby
protecting national sovereignty and the safety of the Korean people.
1. national Vision and security Objectives
The Park administration has set forth its
national vision of a “New Era of Hope” where
the Republic of Korea’s development and
the happiness of individual citizens form a
virtuous cycle. Under this overarching vision,
the administration has selected “economic
revival,” “welfare of the people,” “cultural
enrichment” and “establishment of a foundation for peaceful reunification” as its four
principles. “Establishment of a foundation for
peaceful reunification” is a priority encompass-
2016 New Year Briefings to the President by Government
agencies dealing with Foreign affairs and National Defense
(January 2016)
ing national security issues. To this end, three national security objectives have been established: “Safeguarding the territory and sovereignty of ROK and ensuring the safety of the
people,” “establishing sustainable peace on the Korean Peninsula and preparing for an era of
reunification,” and “promoting cooperation in Northeast Asia and contributing to world peace
and prosperity.”
First, the government will concentrate its efforts on protecting the nation’s territory and sovereignty as well as the people’s lives and properties from multifaceted and complex threats.
They include armed provocations by North Korea as well as current, future, and transnational
threats.
Second, the government seeks to realize sustainable peace on the Korean Peninsula and
prepare for the era of reunification by building trust between the two Koreas. Above all, the
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Chapter 2 National Security Strategy and Defense Policy