Effective Civilian Control Settlement Measures: Upholding Public Values and Ethical Leadership in the ROK Military

Purpose: This article critically analyzes enduring challenges and prerequisites for effective civilian control over the ROK military, emphasizing public values, ethical leadership, and the critical role of “Aemin-Jeongsin” (애민정신, 愛民精神: a dedicated concern for military service members and the public). The December 3rd Emergency Martial Law in 2024 (12/3 EML) and evolving regional dynamics highlight the imperative for civilian leadership to embody these “right values”. for public trust and democratic accountability. Method: Employing a public value lens, this paper examines the 12/3 EML, the civilian Defense Minister's appointment (post-12/3 EML and new government launch), and the President of Republic of Korea's defense initiatives. It particularly analyzes systemic and cultural obstacles such as inadequate civilian military understanding and limitations of rotational appointments, which impede ethical defense stewardship. Results: Analysis reveals that ROK civilian control mechanisms, despite democratic progress, retain inherent vulnerabilities due to a lack of professionalism and insufficient embrace of public values like Aemin-Jeongsin. The civilian Defense Minister’s appointment, linked to the 12/3 EML and new government, notably exposed critical understanding gaps. This persistent deficiency, exacerbated by transient civilian expertise, ultimately demands ethically committed civilian leaders for the President of Republic of Korea's strategic pushes amidst complex geopolitical realities profoundly impacting public values. Conclusion: Effective civilian control requires consistent commitment to public values and ethical leadership. Cultivating proactive military understanding, genuine Aemin-Jeongsin, and enacting structural reforms are crucial for fortifying democratic resilience, strengthening the ROK-U.S. alliance, and empowering the ROK to prioritize citizen well-being within its security environment.