US reluctant to cede wartime troop command to South Korea

Key facts

• South Korea wants to regain wartime operational control of its troops within two years.
• The US has held wartime operational control of South Korean troops since 1950.
• Analysts believe US reluctance stems from a desire to maintain influence against China.

South Korea is seeking to regain wartime operational control of its troops from the United States within the next two years. However, Washington has shown hesitation in committing to a specific date for the transfer, according to analysts. This dispute over OPCON, which the US has held since the Korean War began in 1950, highlights differing views on command structures in potential future conflicts. Analysts suggest the US's reluctance may be linked to its strategic interests in countering China.