A senior US diplomat stated the US is focused on meeting conditions for the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea as soon as possible, understanding Seoul's desire for a swift transition. The transfer is conditions-based, requiring Seoul to meet specific military and environmental criteria.
A senior US diplomat stated the US is focused on ensuring conditions for South Korea's wartime operational control (OPCON) transfer are met "as soon as possible," understanding Seoul's desire for a swift transition. The transfer is conditions-based, requiring Seoul to lead combined forces, possess strong strike and air defense capabilities, and a conducive regional environment.
The US Senate's defense bill includes provisions for enhanced congressional oversight of the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea. This move reflects concerns in Washington that the transfer might be driven by political expediency rather than military readiness, amid a precarious security situation on the Korean Peninsula.
South Korea's Defense Ministry is actively explaining the nation's readiness for wartime operational control (OPCON) transfer to the US Congress, following the inclusion of enhanced congressional oversight provisions in the proposed US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The ministry emphasizes that the transfer will strengthen the combined defense posture.
South Korea's Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back stated that a proposal for the target year to regain wartime operational control (OPCON) from the US will be presented to both presidents by year-end. Discussions on verifying full operational capability (FOC) are ongoing.
South Korea and the US are close to an agreement on the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON), with a senior official calling it a "political decision." While Seoul aims for an early transfer within President Lee Jae Myung's term, potentially by 2028, the US reportedly favors a more cautious timeline. A roadmap is expected in the second half of the year.
South Korea is pushing for a top-level political decision to expedite the transfer of wartime Operational Control (OPCON) from the US, amid differing views on the timing, with Seoul targeting 2028 and the US favoring a more cautious approach, potentially by 2029.
INCHEON, May 10 (Yonhap) -- Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back said Sunday that South...
