ANKARA

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Monday outlined his government's plans to make "bold" investments in research and development (R&D) in the defense and aerospace industries by 2030 to support efforts to secure key technologies and develop advanced weapon systems, according to local media reports.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2025, Lee reaffirmed his government's vision to make South Korea one of the world's top four defense powers, Seoul-based Yonhap News reported.

The biennial defense trade show is being held in Goyang, northwest of Seoul.

"By 2030, we will inject an unprecedented level of budget that surpasses expectations into defense and aerospace R&D to secure core technologies and weapon systems for future defense and to build the capabilities necessary for independent space development," Lee said.

He added that the proposed spending will focus on developing homegrown technologies, components and materials — such as special semiconductors — to be independently secured for defense applications.

As part of Seoul's ongoing efforts to boost its defense exports, Lee's chief of staff, Kang Hoon-sik, flew to Europe on Sunday to strengthen defense industry partnerships and expand South Korea's arms exports.

Kang will deliver Lee's letters to several European countries with which Seoul seeks deeper defense cooperation.