Military budget of South Korea in the context of Welfare in South Korea

⭐ Core Definition: Military budget of South Korea

The Republic of Korea Armed Forces (Korean: 대한민국 국군; Hanja: 大韓民國國軍; RR: Daehanminguk Gukgun; lit. Republic of Korea National Military), also known as the ROK Armed Forces, are the armed forces of South Korea. The ROK Armed Forces is one of the largest and most powerful standing armed forces in the world with a reported personnel strength of 3,600,000 in 2022 (500,000 active and 3,100,000 reserve).

The Republic of Korea Armed Forces traces its roots back to the establishment of the Korean Republic in 1919 wherein its armed wing was called the Korean Liberation Army and it conducted warfare against the Japanese occupation by conducting large-scale offensives, assassinations, bombings, sabotage, and search and rescue missions. Formally founded in 1948, following the establishment of the South Korean government after the liberation of Korea in 1945, South Korea's military forces are responsible for maintaining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state and also engage in peacekeeping operations, humanitarian and disaster relief efforts worldwide.

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👉 Military budget of South Korea in the context of Welfare in South Korea

South Korea's welfare spending has evolved significantly over time. In the past, limited resources and defense spending priorities hindered welfare development. But since the early 2000s there has been a gradual increase in welfare spending. In 2023, the welfare budget amounted to 109 trillion won ($84.4 billion) – one-sixth of the national budget.

The perception of welfare has shifted from negative to positive, with positive reviews for education and health policies. The National Health Insurance system is regarded as one of the best globally, but there are concerns about wasteful resource use. While certain welfare policies have surpluses, others face shortages, such as low allowances for veterans. The national pension system is essential due to aging demographics. Women's welfare has been a significant focus, with efforts to address gender inequality and promote women's rights. Overall South Korea's welfare system has undergone significant transformations and improvements.

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