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When it comes to arms imports, you primarily think of the USA. But almost unnoticed, South Korea is becoming one of the world's largest arms exporters. The country is now the second-largest arms supplier to European NATO countries after the US. Since the outbreak of the Ukraine war, international demand for South Korean weapons systems has been increasing rapidly. Europe is one of the most important markets for South Koreans, not only in the defense industry, but also in cyber and space security.

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Is it possible to identify a cell phone or a coffee cup from an altitude of 400 kilometers? Yes, it is, if you use special satellites with synthetic aperture radar and ultra-high resolution. The true-to-scale model of this so-called “Very Low Earth Orbit Ultra High-Resolution Synthetic Aperture Radar Satellite” was the centerpiece of the latest ADEX trade fair, the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition, which attracted record numbers: 600 defense companies from 35 countries, requiring a significant expansion of the exhibition space.

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If you follow the Korean media coverage, you will not only learn about the expansion, but also the reasons behind it. South Korea is concerned that under President Donald Trump, the US military could withdraw from South Korea. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung recently emphasized the great importance of independent defense. The days of peaceful coexistence are over, he said. Every country must be prepared to protect itself.

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There are very pragmatic reasons for focusing on the development of autonomous weapon systems with artificial intelligence (AI). South Korea has been one of the countries with the lowest birth rates for years. Korea's increased focus on autonomous systems is therefore not only about state-of-the-art warfare, but also has to do with the decline in troop strength. For President Lee, AI, drones, and robotics are therefore key areas for future weapons systems. The country is increasing its investment in high-tech weapons.

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Ever closer relations with NATO

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South Korea is now the second-largest arms supplier to the European NATO countries. It supplies them primarily with vehicles and artillery. Defense cooperation with Europe is constantly increasing, and relations with NATO are becoming ever closer. Nevertheless, the government wants to maintain a balance so as not to anger Russia and China. Lee is striving for smooth relations with China.

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Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, South Korea has seen a sharp increase in international demand for its weapons systems. The need for rapid rearmament has led to large orders, particularly from Poland. Poland is the largest customer, accounting for 46 percent of South Korean arms exports.

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Special Defence Envoy for Europe

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To further boost exports, Lee even appointed a special envoy for the defense industry in Europe. According to media reports, he is tasked with securing deals worth more than $56 billion. South Korea will be able to secure further supply contracts in the coming years not only with the special envoy, but also with presentations of modern high-tech weapon systems at trade fairs. With short delivery times, NATO-compatible quality, and competitive prices, the chances are good.

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Previous presidents have already recognized the economic potential of the arms market and wanted to make South Korea one of the world's leading arms exporters. Lee continues this policy to gain a larger share of the global arms market.

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President Lee promised bold investments in research and development in the defense and aerospace sectors through 2030 to secure key technologies and develop advanced weapons systems. “By 2030, we will allocate an unprecedented budget that exceeds all previous expectations,” Lee said. In 2026 alone, nearly $48 billion will be invested. This also addresses the nuclear threat from North Korea and its missile program. Research in the defense and aerospace sectors is intended to build the necessary capabilities for independent space development. This includes more than just looking into a coffee cup from 400 kilometers above the Earth.

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