South Korea’s military intelligence network is undergoing an overhaul following a massive information leak, posing security and diplomatic challenges.
An employee of South Korea’s military intelligence allegedly disclosed sensitive information to a Chinese agent, revealing significant security flaws within the system. This event highlights vulnerabilities in South Korea’s intelligence networks, threatening the country’s international relations. The leak, which included the identities of undercover agents, has accelerated a comprehensive review of the Korea Defence Intelligence Command (KDIC) aimed at strengthening the security and reliability of its intelligence system.
Background of the leaks and diplomatic repercussions
In August 2024, South Korean authorities accused a KDIC employee of transmitting classified information to a Chinese agent. The leaked data includes highly sensitive information, such as the identities of infiltrated agents, raising major concerns about national security and cooperation with Western allies. Analysts warn that this leak could jeopardize years of strategic collaboration with the United States and other partners, especially in intelligence-sharing. The United States, for instance, provides satellite-based intelligence to South Korea in exchange for human intelligence, a partnership now under scrutiny.
How the information leaks occurred
The suspect reportedly began cooperating in 2017 after being detained in China, where he allegedly faced threats to cooperate. The methods used to transmit information are concerning: photographs of documents were taken on-site at KDIC and stored via Chinese cloud services. The investigation reveals that these practices went unnoticed within KDIC until 2022, exposing security protocol flaws. Since 2022, over 30 classified documents have been disclosed, for a total payment estimated at 160 million won (about €120,000).
Security and internal management challenges
KDIC security has been weakened by internal conflicts, exacerbated by political changes affecting intelligence leadership. These power struggles, influenced by ruling political parties, have undermined KDIC’s management structure. According to experts, these internal conflicts weaken the service’s professionalism and operations. Opposing factions vie for resources and control, creating security gaps like this one.
Toward a reform of South Korea’s military intelligence
In response to these revelations, South Korea’s Ministry of Defense has begun a review of its entire military intelligence system, including KDIC’s internal culture and operations. The goal is to close security gaps and restore trust among allies. This reform could also involve strengthening counter-espionage laws to prevent further leaks of sensitive information. Proposed changes include expanding current laws to cover leaks to countries other than North Korea, which may help prevent similar future incidents.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.