South Korea ranks fifth in global military power, seeks greater autonomy

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung stated on Tuesday that his country's armed forces rank fifth in the world in terms of military power, with the nation's defense industry capabilities considered the fourth-best globally.

"The Republic of Korea currently ranks fifth in the world in terms of military power. The capabilities of its defense industry are considered the fourth-best in the world," the president said at a Cabinet meeting on August 18.

The Republic of Korea has held the fifth-place ranking on the Global Firepower index for three consecutive years since 2024. Lee noted that the country ranks among world leaders "in terms of weapons systems and military power."

The president's remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump issued orders to the Pentagon to significantly reduce joint military exercises scheduled with South Korea for the week. Trump stated he maintains a very good relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

In response to Trump's request for reduced joint exercises, Lee said Seoul should continue without interruption the planned transfer of military control scheduled during his presidency. Speaking at the Cabinet meeting, Lee stated that a strong alliance strengthens the foundations of security, and that strengthening South Korea's own capabilities increases its value and necessity as an ally.

Lee emphasized the importance of both the alliance between the United States and South Korea and independent defense capabilities. The president has renewed efforts to recover independent control of the country's military from the United States in the event of war, and has called for faster progress in acquiring nuclear submarines.

To further strengthen defense capabilities, Lee noted that South Korea needs to accelerate the development of operational and command capabilities. Previously, South Korean authorities had aimed to rank fourth in the world in defense industry exports.