Washington: South Korea and the United States have reached an agreement to work collaboratively on strengthening cooperation in areas of "mutual security interest." This cooperation includes South Korea's efforts to regain wartime operational control (OPCON) from the United States and joint initiatives to modernize the bilateral alliance. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth expressed these commitments during their talks at the Pentagon.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the two defense leaders agreed to maintain close contact and enhance cooperation on mutual security interests. A joint readout from the Pentagon highlighted discussions on key alliance issues, such as the OPCON transition and alliance modernization, with both parties resolving to strengthen cooperation moving forward. The Trump administration has emphasized increased burden-sharing among allies and encouraged Seoul to take primary responsibility in deterring North Korea, with the United States providing critical but more limited support.
The talks occurred amidst apparent differences between the two countries regarding the timeline for the OPCON transfer. While U.S. Forces Korea commander Gen. Xavier Brunson informed Congress that the aim is to meet the conditions for the OPCON transfer by the first quarter of 2029, Seoul is reportedly targeting 2028, suggesting differing timelines.
During the discussions, the defense chiefs reaffirmed the important role of the Korea-U.S. Integrated Defense Dialogue (KIDD), a key platform for bilateral consultation on wartime OPCON issues, to further alliance cooperation and national interests. The biennial KIDD meeting is scheduled in Washington this week.
Defense Minister Ahn highlighted South Korea's efforts to increase defense spending, secure critical defense capabilities, and lead the defense of the Korean Peninsula. Secretary Hegseth emphasized the importance of modernizing the alliance with a pragmatic approach to deter threats and enhance the combined U.S.-ROK defense posture.
The talks also likely covered South Korea's push to develop nuclear-powered submarines, a move previously greenlighted by President Trump. A defense ministry official confirmed that the issue was discussed, emphasizing the importance of swift tangible outcomes.
Hegseth called for allies and partners, including South Korea, to support U.S. efforts in confronting threats. His remarks followed a recent incident involving a Korean-operated cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, which was struck by unidentified flying objects. The incident may prompt Seoul to reconsider its stance on Middle East tensions and align more closely with U.S. efforts regarding the strategic waterway.
Deputy spokesperson Lee Kyung-ho indicated that the two sides exchanged views on ensuring maritime safety and navigation freedom in the Strait of Hormuz. Cheong Wa Dae condemned the attack on the Korean cargo ship and affirmed Seoul's commitment to international efforts for vessel security and safe passage.
Defense Minister Ahn's five-day trip to the U.S. includes meetings with the acting secretary of the U.S. Navy and U.S. senators on the armed services committee.