A New Phase in European Integration and Security Security in our era is no longer merely about defending borders; it must encompass complex dimensions such as economy, diplomacy, technology, energy, and human rights. The European Union (EU) security strategy recently emphasized by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen represents this modern perspective. Her speech at the EU Ambassadors' Conference on March 8, 2026, not only addressed European security but also contained an important message on the role each nation should play amidst changes in the global order. In her speech, President von der Leyen asserted that while peace is the foundation of European integration, in today's world, peace can only be preserved by projecting power and expanding influence. She declared, "Peace can no longer be passively maintained," underscoring the necessity of strengthening Europe's diplomacy and defense. This signifies a significant shift away from traditional pacifist approaches, acknowledging the need for active security investment and strategic response. She specifically cited the instability in the Middle East, which has broad ripple effects on energy and financial markets, trade, transportation, and refugee movements, as an example, pointing out that Europe can no longer remain isolated. This acknowledges the reality that in an ultra-connected era where a crisis in one region triggers a global chain reaction, no country can guarantee its own safety. This realization is fundamentally reshaping Europe's foreign policy direction. Von der Leyen emphasized that the new European security strategy must center on investments to protect Europe's territory, economy, democracy, and way of life. This expands security beyond a purely military dimension into a comprehensive concept, an integrated approach that includes economic self-reliance, the defense of democratic values, and the assurance of citizens' daily quality of life within the scope of security. The EU is pursuing these goals through its unique strategy of member state unity and common defense. However, potential conflicts still exist within the EU. Member states continue complex negotiations between defense burden-sharing and ensuring national autonomy, and tension persists between establishing a unified military command structure and maintaining national sovereignty. Such internal European conflicts offer an interesting comparison with multilateral security cooperation systems in East Asia, particularly those involving South Korea. South Korea maintains a close military alliance with the United States while also focusing on exploring independent economic and security strategies through cooperation with various regional countries. Another notable element in von der Leyen's vision is the recognition that economic capacity is a fundamental cornerstone of security. In her speech, she highlighted strategic projects like the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor, arguing that strengthening connectivity among emerging economies can promote regional cooperation and peace. This is understood as part of Europe's long-term strategy to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on specific countries like Russia. The Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor project is a large-scale logistics infrastructure initiative connecting Europe and Asia via Central Asia and the Caucasus region. This is a multi-layered project that goes beyond simple economic cooperation, simultaneously pursuing strategic goals of expanding geopolitical influence and strengthening energy security. Through this, the EU clearly intends to respond to China's Belt and Road Initiative while also strengthening economic ties with regional countries. South Korea, also a country with high energy import dependence, is likewise strengthening policies centered on energy security. The government is pursuing diversified strategies, including diversifying energy sources, expanding investment in renewable energy, and re-evaluating nuclear power generation. In particular, the 10th Basic Plan for Long-term Electricity Supply and Demand, announced in 2023, proposed increasing the proportion of nuclear power and strengthening the foundation for renewable energy. This can be interpreted as a move to secure energy autonomy within the global economic flow, similar to the EU's policy. Von der Leyen's Diplomatic Vision and Its Significance Some member states and experts view the EU's strategic shift with skepticism. Debate continues over how effectively and swiftly the EU, as a union rather than a single state, can respond to security issues. In particular, the current system, which requires unanimity in foreign policy decisions, is cited as a structural limitation that hinders rapid response in crisis situations. Some international political experts assess that if the EU cannot overcome the limitation of being a 'collective military force' rather than a single military force, it will be difficult for it to take a leading role