South Korea and the United States have agreed to enhance cooperation in areas of mutual security interest, including Seoul’s efforts to regain wartime operational control from Washington and to modernize their alliance. Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed this commitment during their recent meeting at the Pentagon. Both leaders discussed key alliance issues and pledged to strengthen cooperation moving forward.
The talks come amidst differences between the two sides regarding the timeline for the operational control transition. While the US aims for a transfer no later than the first quarter of 2029, Seoul targets 2028, indicating a potential disparity in transition timelines. The importance of the Korea-US Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) was also emphasized during the discussions, with a biennial meeting scheduled in Washington.
Ahn highlighted South Korea’s efforts to boost defense spending, secure critical capabilities, and lead the defense of the Korean Peninsula. Hegseth stressed the significance of modernizing the alliance to deter threats effectively. The discussions likely included South Korea’s plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines, a move approved during previous summit talks.
Hegseth called for solidarity among allies in confronting threats, emphasizing the need for support during times of conflict. Recent events, such as an attack on a Korean cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, have raised questions about South Korea’s stance in the Middle East. Cheong Wa Dae condemned the attack and affirmed continued participation in international efforts to ensure maritime security.
The joint readout did not provide details on discussions related to the Strait of Hormuz or US initiatives. Ahn’s visit to the US also includes meetings with the acting secretary of the US Navy and US senators on the armed services committee.
