문대통령 "완전한 미사일 주권 확보 노력 계속"

Continued efforts to secure complete missile sovereignty.
That's President Moon Jae-in as he assessed the recent revision to the South Korea, U.S. missile guidelines lifting restrictions on Seoul's use of solid rocket fuels for space vehicles.
Arirang's senior Blue House correspondent Kim Min-ji start us off tonight.
President Moon Jae-in has called for continued efforts to secure South Korea's complete sovereignty over its use and development of missiles.
His remarks come after South Korea and the U.S. agreed to lift restrictions on the country's use of solid fuel for space rockets.
"The president evaluated the lifting of the restrictions as a good opportunity for the nation's space sector as an industry of the future. The president stressed the need to make continued efforts to secure complete missile sovereignty."
The top office explained that the end of the restrictions will help give South Korea an advantage in the space industry.
For starters, it will be able to develop various types of launch vehicles using fuels ranging from liquids to solids and hybrids, depending on the purpose.
On top of that, solid fuel rockets are easier to produce and to launch, and are more cost efficient.
Also, local defense companies that have acquired solid fuel technology will now be able to enter the market for mid-to-long-range private rockets.
"We gained competitiveness so that we don't miss the golden opportunity for private firms to join efforts in space development, and we have fostered an environment in which young entrepreneurs can take part in the space industry."
The top office said that the government will spare no effort to support research and development... so that South Korea can become a leading player.
Kim Min-ji, Arirang News.