# South Korea Reforms Defense AI Procurement

South Korea is advancing legislative reforms in 2026 to modernize its defense acquisition system, focusing on AI-based integrated air defense capabilities to counter North Korea's mixed drone and missile threats. The proposed Special Act on Software-Centric Weapon Systems Acquisition and the Act on Advanced Defense Power Projects aim to shift procurement from traditional hardware-centric processes to more agile, software-driven approaches. These reforms seek to accelerate procurement cycles, grant greater autonomy to defense AI startups and military organizations, and enhance the country's competitiveness in defense AI technologies.

- The legislative initiatives prioritize software-centric weapon systems, reflecting the need for rapid adaptation to evolving AI and software advancements.
- Procurement professionals should anticipate streamlined acquisition procedures that reduce timelines from years to months, enabling faster deployment of AI-enabled defense solutions.
- Defense contractors and startups specializing in AI and integrated air defense systems may find increased opportunities due to the emphasis on flexible and autonomous procurement.
- Organizations involved in South Korea's defense sector should evaluate how these reforms impact contract requirements, compliance, and partnership models with government entities.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** September 17, 2026

### Government Entities
- Republic of Korea Military
- People Power Party

### Key Quotes
> The current acquisition system is hardware-oriented1focused on assets like tanks, fighter jets, and warships. It can take over ten years to procure a new weapon, so it is impossible to keep up with AI and software, which evolve on a monthly basis, using such a rigid process.
> — Yongwon Yoo, Member of the National Assembly

### Sources
- [[AI Rulemakers]⑧Yongwon Yoo: "North Korea Intensifies Mixed Drone and Missile Attacks... AI-Based Integrated Air Defense Urgently Needed" - The Asia Business Daily](https://www.asiae.co.kr/en/article/2026091709210382243) - asiae.co.kr