On Tuesday, a high-ranking South Korean official emphasized the crucial need for allied nations to collaborate in the fight against malicious actors in cyberspace.
During his welcoming address at the 8th International Conference on Building Global Cyberspace Peace Regime (GCPR), Kim Kyou-hyun, the director of South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS), underscored the urgent necessity for creating an international framework. This would empower nations to collectively safeguard against emerging cyber threats.
“A peaceful cyberspace is essential for economic growth, the free flow of information, and the safeguarding of human rights,” Kim declared. “As a pivotal player on the global stage, South Korea is committed to collaborating closely with the international community to uphold international order and protect the universal values that are guaranteed by law in the digital realm.”
In the ensuing keynote address, the head of South Korea’s National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) explored the theme of the conference: international responsibilities in cyberspace. “Cyberattacks can wreak havoc beyond borders, imperiling citizens and national security alike. However, combating these threats effectively requires collaboration with the affected nations,” the chief emphasized. “Responsible countries must look beyond their own narrow interests and engage in mutually beneficial cooperation.”
While acknowledging the complexities arising from divergent cybersecurity capabilities, perspectives, and legal frameworks among nations, the chief stressed that countries should not turn a blind eye when their own infrastructure is weaponized by adversaries to target others. He emphasized the importance of active cooperation when other countries seek assistance. Furthermore, he articulated South Korea’s robust commitment to establishing a secure digital landscape in concert with international partners. “The NCSC is staunchly committed to the development of international norms that hold rogue hackers accountable for their actions as a step toward ensuring global cyber peace,” the NCSC chief declared.
After the remarks from South Korean officials, Anne Neuberger, the U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technologies, underscored the significance of the steadfast alliance between South Korea and the U.S. in enhancing global security. In her virtual address, Neuberger asserted that for both nations, cybersecurity stands at the forefront of national security concerns.
“Critical infrastructure networks will ensure that our adversaries will not be able to coerce our foreign policy decisions or cripple us during conflict by disrupting critical infrastructure and services upon which our citizens and our militaries rely,” noted the deputy national security advisor.
