The 2019 National Cybersecurity Strategy of the Republic of Korea acknowledged the escalating nature of cyber threats, emphasizing the need to fortify defences and enhance resilience. However, the 2024 strategy underscored the criticality of offensive cyber power, suggesting a significant shift in emphasis. This transition toward a more offensive posture, while necessary in the face of evolving threats, raises crucial questions regarding the nature and scope of the Republic of Korea’s offensive cyber capabilities and the doctrines guiding their use.
By examining official documents, analyzing relevant laws and regulations, and investigating the structure of government agencies, this paper sheds light on the Republic of Korea’s potential to conduct international cyber operations and the principles likely to govern their deployment.
Citation: So Jeong Kim, International Cyber Operations: Doctrines and Capabilities of the Republic of Korea (Geneva: UNIDIR, 2026).