South Korea will develop a new missile defense system to protect against North Korean artillery threats.

On January 20, South Korea officially announced the commencement of the development of its own missile defense system to protect against potential artillery strikes from North Korea. The work is expected to be completed by 2028.

This was reported by RBK-Ukraine citing Yonhap.

The South Korean state arms procurement agency stated that the new missile defense system will resemble Israel's "Iron Dome" and is intended to strengthen the country's defense against artillery threats from North Korea.

The South Korean government plans to allocate 479.8 billion won (approximately 329 million USD) for the development of the missile defense system.

According to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), the low-altitude missile defense system (LAMD) will be designed to intercept artillery shells simultaneously.

South Korean media highlight that this initiative is part of an effort to enhance air defense capabilities in Seoul, as North Korea possesses numerous long-range artillery systems positioned within a broader area around the capital, where half of the country's 51 million residents live.

DAPA also informed that the new system will help protect key military installations in South Korea from North Korean artillery threats. Furthermore, the agency added that it will facilitate the rapid deployment of other systems.

The project will involve the state Defense Development Agency and defense companies from South Korea, including LIG Nex1 Co., Hanwha Aerospace Co., and Hanwha Systems Co.

It is worth noting that in May 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope that South Korea would provide Kyiv with defensive military equipment, such as anti-aircraft systems, to counter attacks from Russia.

It should be mentioned that South Korea is a major exporter of weapons. The country has so far ruled out the possibility of sending lethal weapons as part of aid to Ukraine, citing business ties with Russia and Moscow's influence over North Korea, despite growing pressure from Washington and Europe to supply arms.

However, in April 2023, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeo indicated the possibility of changes in the country's stance on providing assistance to Ukraine.

Additionally, media reports have occasionally emerged, particularly against the backdrop of military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, suggesting that Seoul might provide Ukraine with air defense systems and 155mm shells. There is no confirmation of this.