[Key Points] Opposition vows to block military academy merger

Main opposition People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyeok speaks during a party leadership meeting at the National Assembly in Seoul on Monday. (Yonhap) Merger battle: People Power Party leader Jang Dong-hyeok vowed to block integration of the Army, Navy and Air Force academies.Readiness concerns: Jang says the plan could weaken service-specific training and overall military strength.Site problems: He criticized Jaun-dae in Daejeon for lacking facilities such as an airfield and port.Government rationale: The Defense Ministry says integration will strengthen future-war readiness and training efficiency.Coup legacy: President Lee Jae Myung has linked the reform to preventing future military intervention in politics.Military backlash: Retired leaders and academy alumni warn the merger could erode expertise and traditions.Opposition escalates: Jang says the People Power Party will use all available means to stop the plan.

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