South Korean Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back stated that South Korea and the United States are advancing in the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) without major issues. The two allies have been meeting conditions for the transition, aiming for South Korea to regain command of its troops by 2030. Ahn emphasized the significant progress made since 2015 under a conditions-based agreement.
Ahn’s comments come as Seoul eyes 2028 for the OPCON transfer, while the US aims to meet the conditions by the first quarter of 2029. Discussions on the target year for the transfer will be a key agenda item in talks between Ahn and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. The two countries agreed to finalize the roadmap for the transfer during their last consultative meeting.
Addressing Seoul’s interest in nuclear-powered submarines, Ahn highlighted the need to follow through on commitments made during summit talks. He expressed confidence in moving forward with the process if the US provides support on the fuel side. Negotiations on nuclear-powered submarines are expected to commence soon, as per the agreed procedures between the two nations.
