Close-up of South Korea's grand military parade

South Korea held its first large-scale military parade in a decade on September 26, showcasing weapons ranging from ballistic missiles to attack helicopters as the country took a tougher stance toward North Korea.

The parade, which began at an air base in Seongnam, on the outskirts of Seoul, included Hyunmoo missiles, L-SAM missile interceptors and reconnaissance drones. Hyunmoo is one of South Korea's newest missiles, while L-SAM is designed to intercept missiles at an altitude of 50-60 km.

South Korea holds rare military parade, including long-range missiles. Photo: Yonhap

The parade marked Armed Forces Day, an anniversary that has traditionally been "quiet" but was celebrated with fanfare this year, according to Reuters.

Speaking at an air base in Seoul, President Yoon Suk-yeol warned North Korea against using nuclear weapons and pledged to increase support for its military and defense industry.

"If North Korea uses nuclear weapons, it will face a strong response from the South Korea-US alliance," Mr. Yoon told the military.

Since taking office last year, the South Korean leader has actively strengthened military alliances with the United States and Japan.

Close-up of South Korea's grand military parade

The South Korean Defense Ministry said the September 26 parade featured thousands of soldiers, South Korean-made tanks and self-propelled artillery, attack aircraft and drones, along with 300 of the 28,500 US troops stationed in the country.

The highlight will be a 2-km parade through Seoul's main commercial and business district to the bustling Gwanghwamun area.

The last time South Korea held a street parade was in 2013.

Some pictures of the parade. Photo: Reuters

President Yoon Suk-yoon at the military parade

Pham Nghia

Source: https://nld.com.vn/thoi-su-quoc-te/can-canh-le-duyet-binh-ram-ro-cua-han-quoc-20230926145807639.htm