(2nd LD) Defense ministry launches new counterintelligence unit in overhaul

Seoul, Aug. 3 - The defense ministry has unveiled a new counterintelligence unit to counter espionage and terror threats from North Korea and other nations, as part of a major overhaul. The new Defense Counterintelligence Agency replaces the Defense Counterintelligence Command (DCC), which faced criticism for its political influence over the years.

Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back emphasized that the new agency is dedicated solely to its original missions, aiming to serve the public. Its key tasks include tackling future security threats, preventing military secret leaks in the defense industry, and protecting advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and satellite systems against cyber threats.

The reform also calls for the creation of a separate investigative unit to handle crimes threatening national security, including espionage, treason, and cybersecurity threats. The launch ceremony was held at the former DCC headquarters in Gwacheon, attended by the Defence Minister and other military officials. Additionally, a new Security Support Unit was established within the ministry to oversee internal military security and investigate security breaches.