Washington: South Korea and the United States have reached an agreement to enhance their cooperation on issues concerning mutual security interests, including Seoul's initiative to regain wartime operational control (OPCON) from Washington and efforts to modernize their alliance. This agreement was solidified during a meeting at the Pentagon between South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
According to Yonhap News Agency, both officials expressed their commitment to maintaining close communication and collaboration on these security matters, as outlined in a joint statement from the Pentagon. The discussions highlighted key alliance issues such as the transition of wartime operational control and the ongoing modernization of the alliance, with both leaders resolving to strengthen their cooperation.
The administration of President Donald Trump has emphasized increased burden-sharing among allies, urging Seoul to assume greater responsibility in deterring North Korea, while the U.S. provides crucial but more limited support. The talks occurred in the context of differing timelines for the OPCON transfer, with U.S. Forces Korea commander Gen. Xavier Brunson indicating a goal of achieving the transition by the first quarter of 2029, while Seoul aims for 2028.
During their discussions, Ahn and Hegseth reaffirmed the significance of the Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD) as a platform for advancing alliance cooperation and national interests. The KIDD meeting is set to take place in Washington this week.
South Korea's recent efforts to bolster its defense spending and capabilities were also emphasized by Ahn, while Hegseth highlighted the need for modernizing the alliance to address threats effectively. The talks likely included discussions on Seoul's pursuit of nuclear-powered submarines, a move previously supported by Trump during discussions with President Lee Jae Myung.
Hegseth called for allied support in confronting global threats, emphasizing the importance of South Korea and other partners standing with the U.S. during conflicts. His remarks followed an incident involving a Korean-operated cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, which Seoul attributed to a strike by unidentified flying objects. This incident may influence South Korea's stance on tensions in the Middle East and its alignment with U.S. efforts in the strategic region.
Cheong Wa Dae condemned the attack on the Korean cargo ship and affirmed South Korea's commitment to international efforts to secure safe passage for vessels. However, the joint statement from the Pentagon did not include details on discussions about the Strait of Hormuz.
During his five-day visit to the U.S., Ahn is also scheduled to meet with the acting secretary of the U.S. Navy and members of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee.