Seoul considers cyber reserve force to counter N. Korean threat

SEOUL, May 26 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's defense and technology ministries on Thursday discussed the feasibility of creating a cybersecurity reserve force in preparation for a national network emergency.

The idea was raised at a senior-level meeting between the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning aimed at strengthening cooperation in defending the country from security threats.

"The two sides discussed ways to form a government-civilian cyber reserve force," the ICT ministry said in a press release.

Ministry officials say the cyber reserve force will likely consist of reservists who formerly served in the cyberspace security fields of the military and police.

The ministry added it will consider establishing a cyber training site and offering a related training program.

The defense ministry plans to review if it's possible and feasible to draft cyber professionals for the special mission and whether revisions to related legislation and rules are required or not.

The ministries also decided to expand the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced technologies in the defense sector.

They will explore joint projects for small-sized drones and AI-based CCTVs for surveillance at guard posts.

"Cooperation with the Ministry of National Defense is meaningful in that newly developed ICT is applied to the defense field. It's also of great significance in that science, technology and ICT can play a role in bolstering national security," Kim Yong-soo, deputy minister for information and technology policy, said.

lcd@yna.co.kr
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