On the Development of the Korean Defence Industry

Abstract

The Korean defense industry gained significant results since it had been launched in the 1970's with strong support of the government. However, in the early 1980's, as the international and domestic security environment underwent changes after the Cold War and economic growth became an urgent national objective, the civilian industry began to take priority over the defense industry. Accordingly, the Korean defense industry suffered a deep depression in the middle of 1980's and this trend has continued into the 1990's. Although some people have raised voices about the importance of reviving the defense industry, it still not perceived as an urgent part of the nation to be reactivated. Generally, the defense industry lacks political and systematic support.