[Opinion] Let`s Raise up `Cyber Warrior`

The terrorist attacks on the U.S. on September 11th of last year continued with `bio-terrorist` anthrax scare and the `cave warfare` in Afghanistan. The new form of warfare and threat never before experience has caused massive changes in global consciousness and economic activity. It is as if a film overtook the real world.

There is, however, one more thing that remains on the film screen - `cyber terror` and `cyber warfare`. Frequent incidents of hackers breaking in or viruses circulating are elementary forms of cyber terror. Cyber terrorists breaks into computer systems or spreads viruses in order to distort or paralyze the nation`s and its commanding offices` decision-making process. It turns a nation into a `vegetable`.

They can disrupt the operation of missile bases or airports, and hack into satellite systems and disturb communication. This could lead fighter planes to bomb the wrong areas or make missiles fire on a friendly. Problems with radio communication could lead to naval bombardment on friendly forces. A virus-infected nuclear facility computer could create a disaster. A paralyzed bank can paralyze the nation`s entire economy. If a virus infects wireless communications, mobile phones will go berserk.

The unique character of cyber warfare is the fact that one cannot see the enemy. A computer online is the only thing needed for operations. Consequently, it is difficult to tell the difference between the enemy and ally, front and rear.

Hence, a 1997 U.S. Congress report states, "China judges that cyber warfare is more effective than nuclear warfare and has gone into preparations." In fact, after the mistaken bombing of the Chinese embassy in Yugoslavia in 2000, many hacker-attacks were launched against the U.S. After the airplane accident between China and the U.S. at the beginning of last year, there were also similar attacks against the U.S.

The U.S. anticipated that cyber warfare and information battles will be the form of war in the 21st century and established a subsidiary of the Pentagon called the Red Team in 1996. In 1999, they launched a joint command center for cyber warfare for research and development in cyber warfare defense weapons and offense hacking technology and viruses.

In 1999, Russia also demonstrated its capacities by infiltrating the U.S. space and sea administration systems center. They are reported to be developing an electronic weapon that can damage operation mechanisms in helicopters and tanks within the target range. This weapon uses the mechanics that commercial airplanes try to avoid by asking customers to turn off their cell phones before take-off and landing. Japan also expressed the need to create a cyber warfare force in its `five year defense strength plan` which began last year.

The biggest surprise, however, is North Korea.

Already by 1986, NK established the `Mirim University` and recruited the best minds to become cyber soldiers. Renamed as `Leadership Formation University`, this special university still produces 100 special trainees every year who work in the civilian military, recon, and special forces. These military personnel are reported to have the most sophisticated cyber warfare capacity in the world.

How about our own nation? As I have gathered the preceding information from the media, I cannot say that I know the entire situation of the nation nor can I open discuss everything I do know. One thing that is clear, however, is that one cannot respond to terrorism with words. Daily inspections are not enough. Superior cyber military force must be formed and response mechanisms implemented before it is too late and before cyber warfare becomes a reality in Korea.

Now is the time when brains are as needed in the military as physical fitness. A new plan for human resources is in order when we consider that many talented personnel are going away from the military and into corporations and venture capital firms. Without the best people in place, our forces will lose 100 out 100. In addition, information protection industries have to become defense industries and be directly nurtured.

Before the Japanese invasion, Yulgok argued for `building a military of 100,000 troops`. What would he say if he were alive today? I think that he will demand that we prepare for cyber warfare.

Lee Kwang-Hyung (KAIST Professor of Future Industries, Guest Editorial Writer)