On October 20, President Yoon Suk-yeol addressed a graduation ceremony for the integrated military academies of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, emphasizing the importance of cultivating defense professionals equipped to lead future warfare. He highlighted that the ceremony, the first in nine years, aims to break down inter-service barriers and enhance joint capabilities within the South Korean military. President Yoon stated that while new officers may come from different branches, their primary mission remains the protection of the nation and its citizens, advocating for a unified military force to achieve common objectives.

During the ceremony, President Yoon reflected on his campaign promise to establish an integrated military academy, a reform recommended by special advisory committees aimed at overcoming past challenges and redesigning future defense strategies. According to the proposed reform, aspiring officers would enter a new military academy, undergoing foundational training together before selecting their specific branches by their third year and receiving specialized military training accordingly. This initiative is poised to modernize the training process and adapt the South Korean military to contemporary security needs.

Furthermore, President Yoon addressed the harsh realities of today's security environment, underscoring the necessity of a strong national defense against threats to sovereignty. He articulated a vision for a smart and elite military, emphasizing self-reliant defense and a military reflective of the citizenry. Yoon asserted that reliance on troop numbers alone is outdated, and the government is committed to investing in advanced military technology to ensure South Korea’s defense capabilities meet future challenges.