South Korea Showcases Hyunmoo-5 Missile at Armed Forces Day Parade

SEOUL: In a significant display of military strength, South Korea recently unveiled its latest ballistic missile, the Hyunmoo-5, during a military parade held in Seoul. This event, which took place on Armed Forces Day, is part of an annual tradition that aims to demonstrate the country’s readiness to counter threats from North Korea. The Hyunmoo-5 missile is capable of carrying an impressive eight-ton warhead and is designed to penetrate underground bunkers, making it a formidable addition to South Korea's defense arsenal.

The parade featured around 5,300 troops and showcased 340 types of military equipment, including a flypast by a US B-1B strategic bomber. This marked the first time such an aircraft participated in the South Korean parade, highlighting the close military cooperation between the two nations. President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has revived the tradition of annual military parades, emphasized the importance of demonstrating military might as a deterrent against North Korea, which frequently showcases its own missile capabilities.

In his speech, President Yoon warned North Korea against the use of nuclear weapons, stating, "If North Korea attempts to use nuclear weapons, it will face a resolute, overwhelming response from our military and the US alliance." He also criticized North Korea's military cooperation with Russia, calling it illegal. The launch of the Strategic Command, which is responsible for responding to North Korea's weapons of mass destruction, was celebrated during the event.

The Hyunmoo-5 missile, often referred to as a "monster missile" by South Korean media, is categorized as short-range but can exceed a range of 5,000 kilometers when equipped with a one-ton warhead. This capability is crucial for South Korea's "three-axis" defense system, which aims to neutralize North Korea's nuclear threats and includes plans for pre-emptive strikes if necessary.

However, not everyone supports the parade. Some opposition lawmakers and activists criticized the event, arguing that it resembles the military displays of past South Korean governments and is a misuse of taxpayer money, with a budget of 7.9 billion won (approximately $6 million) allocated for this year’s festivities. In response, the defense ministry stated that the parade boosts troop morale and stimulates defense exports while serving as a deterrent against North Korea.

As tensions continue to simmer on the Korean Peninsula, the unveiling of the Hyunmoo-5 missile and the accompanying military parade serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing arms race in the region. While South Korea seeks to bolster its defenses, the situation calls for careful consideration of diplomatic avenues to ensure lasting peace. The balance between military readiness and diplomatic engagement remains crucial in navigating the complex dynamics of North Korea's provocations and the broader geopolitical landscape.