Seoul: The vice defense chief on Monday called on the military to preemptively beef up its readiness posture against potential disasters during the summer, the defense ministry said. Vice Defense Minister Lee Doo-hee emphasized the importance of preparedness during a meeting with military officials aimed at discussing the military's response to heat waves and downpours in the summer.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the meeting was organized to ensure the safety of service members during disaster relief operations, particularly in anticipation of heavy rains. Vice Defense Minister Lee highlighted the significant threat that natural disasters pose to national security and stressed the necessity of excessive rather than insufficient military response when such disasters are imminent or occur.
Following the meeting, the defense ministry initiated a constant readiness posture to enhance the military's capability to respond to potential disasters. Additionally, the ministry has committed to close coordination with relevant ministries to ensure the safety of both the public and service members.