The tragic death of a 21-year-old South Korean marine, Corporal Chae Su-geun, during a mission in monsoon floods last month has exposed critical safety concerns and triggered a multifaceted investigation within the ROK armed forces. 

This incident has raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures, the scope of accountability and the potential repercussions for troop morale and readiness. 

It has also underlined how the ROK military is still navigating broader legal reforms introduced during the Moon administration, which have redefined the roles of military leaders and expanded the purview of civilian courts. 

The challenge for South Korea is to