South Korea’s Defence Minister, Ahn Gyu-back, visited the South Korea-US Combined Forces Command (CFC) and stressed the importance of maintaining a strong readiness stance amidst evolving security conditions. At the CFC headquarters in Camp Humphreys, Ahn met with US Forces Korea Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson, highlighting the significance of the allies’ joint defense posture. He urged the swift implementation of agreements made during summit talks and a subsequent security meeting between the two nations.
Ahn’s visit marked his first on-site inspection of the year, underscoring the critical role of the CFC in the South Korea-US alliance. He emphasized the need for a steadfast combat readiness posture in response to the rapidly changing security landscape. Referring to the CFC as the “heart” of the alliance, Ahn called for enhanced cooperation to ensure peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. Additionally, he conveyed a New Year’s message to South Korean and American troops, expressing gratitude for their contributions to regional peace.
During the Security Consultative Meeting in November, defense chiefs from both countries agreed to develop a roadmap aimed at expediting the conditions for transferring wartime operational control from Washington to Seoul by 2030. Ahn’s visit and discussions at the CFC underscored the shared commitment to strengthening the combined defense capabilities of South Korea and the US, with a focus on regional security and stability.
