South Korea's Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back will propose a target year for regaining wartime operational control (OPCON) from the U.S. to both presidents by year-end. The transfer is a key goal for President Lee Jae Myung's administration, aiming for completion within his term ending in 2030.
The potential transfer of wartime operational control signifies a significant step towards South Korea's defense autonomy and could reshape the military alliance dynamics on the Korean Peninsula.
South Korea's Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back announced that a target year for the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) from the United States back to South Korea will be proposed to the presidents of both nations by the end of 2026. This move aligns with President Lee Jae Myung's administration's goal to complete the transfer within his term, which concludes in 2030.
Ahn stated in a KBS interview that discussions on verifying South Korea's full operational capability (FOC) will occur with the U.S. defense secretary at the Security Consultative Meeting in November. Following this assessment, a proposal will be presented to both presidents to decide on the specific year for regaining wartime OPCON.
The allies are currently engaged in the FOC verification, the second phase of a three-step program designed to assess Seoul's readiness to lead combined forces. South Korea originally handed over operational control of its troops to the U.S.-led U.N. Command during the Korean War (1950-53) and later to the Combined Forces Command in 1978. While South Korea regained peacetime OPCON in 1994, the U.S. still retains wartime operational control.
Ahn acknowledged that differences in opinion between Seoul and Washington on the timing of the transfer are possible, comparing it to differing opinions within a marriage. He emphasized ongoing close communication to bridge these gaps.
In a separate development, Ahn confirmed South Korea's pursuit of a nuclear-powered submarine project, noting that the country possesses all necessary capabilities except for the nuclear fuel. Seoul is seeking U.S. cooperation for low-enriched uranium, less than 20 percent enrichment. While a definitive agreement for domestic construction has not yet been reached, South Korea maintains its preference for building such vessels at home.