For the first time in a decade, downtown Seoul will witness a grand procession of tanks, fighter jets, and advanced military assets. Announced by the South Korean Ministry of Defence, this upcoming military parade on September 26th marks a significant milestone – the 75th anniversary of the founding of the country’s armed forces. However, this event carries more weight than mere commemoration, as it takes place in the midst of escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
The Context:
In recent years, North Korea has regularly held military parades, the most recent one occurring just last week. Attended by the country’s leader Kim Jong Un, as well as delegates from Russia and China, it not only served as a display of military might but also reinforced Pyongyang’s partnerships with Moscow and Beijing. Alongside its aggressive rhetoric and weapons testing, North Korea launched its 20th missile test this week during Kim’s visit to Russia for a suspected arms deal.
A Departure from Recent Tradition:
In a bid to ease tensions with their northern neighbor, South Korea’s former President Moon Jae-in changed the format of military parades in 2018. Instead of showcasing tanks and munitions, a more celebratory ceremony led by popstar Psy was held. However, President Yoon Suk-yeol, who assumed office in 2022, has adopted a more hardline approach. This year’s parade, as announced, emphasizes “strong military, strong security, and peace through strength.”
Reinforcing the Alliance with the United States:
While Korean weaponry will undoubtedly be part of the display, what sets this year’s parade apart is the increased focus on South Korea’s alliance with the United States. As the alliance strengthens, hundreds of American troops and several American aircraft are set to participate, even engaging in parachute drops to showcase combined operational capabilities.
The Significance:
According to Gordon Kang, a senior analyst at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, President Yoon’s approach in restoring military showmanship is not unexpected. The parade serves as both a message to the domestic population and international observers. By putting trust in the military, Yoon aims to demonstrate to the Korean people that tax funds were wisely allocated. Additionally, the parade offers a welcome distraction for South Koreans amidst economic concerns and worry over the safety of seafood due to Chinese-inflated concerns.
Reaffirming Commitment to Safeguarding Sovereignty:
Above all, the South Korean government seeks to underscore its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. The parade symbolizes the country’s preparedness and capability to deter threats, whether they originate from North Korea or elsewhere. It acts as a display of resolve for the security challenges the nation faces.
Market Capital Research 