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South Korea's defense budget for 2024 is approximately 59 trillion won, reflecting a 25-34% increase. This budget will support the acceleration of wartime operational control transfer and a reduction in U.S. military roles.

The funding will cover the full reconstruction of command, control, intelligence, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems, replacement of U.S. ISR and precision-strike assets, and expansion of missile defense, space, and cyber capabilities, with annual costs estimated between 15 trillion and 20 trillion won.

This is a recurring expense, with cumulative costs potentially reaching 150 to 200 trillion won over a decade. The U.S. is transitioning to a support-centered posture, thereby transferring some operational costs. The South Korean government faces choices regarding the funding sources, including increasing the defense budget or expanding national debt.