Seoul: U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday emphasized the need for a "balance" in the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea, ensuring that the roles of the U.S. military are respected. The remarks were made during a defense forum in Singapore, amid concerns about differing views between Seoul and Washington regarding the timeline and method for the transition.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Hegseth addressed the Asia Security Summit, also known as the Shangri-La Dialogue, acknowledging the Republic of Korea's desire to regain wartime OPCON. South Korea has proposed completing the transfer by 2028, before the end of President Lee Jae Myung's term in 2030. However, concerns arose about the alignment of Washington's timeline, especially after Gen. Xavier Brunson of U.S. Forces Korea mentioned aiming for a 2029 first-quarter deadline to meet the necessary conditions for the transfer.

South Korea initially handed over operational control of its troops to the U.S.-led U.N. Command during the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, and it was later transferred to the allies' Combined Forces Command in 1978. Hegseth expressed support for Seoul's determination to expedite the wartime OPCON transfer, describing it as a "breath of fresh air" and something that should be encouraged.

Regarding South Korea's ambitions to develop a nuclear-powered submarine program, Hegseth reiterated U.S. support for allies enhancing their undersea warfare capabilities. He noted that such developments would bolster deterrence and regional stability, creating strategic complexities for potential adversaries.

The U.S. has already supported South Korea's initiative to build conventionally armed nuclear-powered attack submarines following a leaders' summit in October. Recently, South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back unveiled a roadmap for the nation's nuclear-powered submarine program, targeting the launch of the first vessel by the mid-2030s.

Hegseth praised South Korean leadership for its proactive approach to national security, particularly President Lee's decision to increase defense spending to 3.5 percent of GDP. He described it as a pragmatic move that acknowledges the current threat environment and sets a standard he hopes other allies and partners will follow.

Overall, Hegseth commended Seoul's leadership and its steps towards assuming greater defense responsibilities, asserting that the region will become more stable and secure as other allies adopt similar approaches.