S. Korea’s Lee Seeks Full Wartime Military Control from US

(MENAFN) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday reaffirmed his commitment to reclaiming wartime operational control of South Korea’s forces from the United States, underscoring a critical security promise, media reported.

Addressing troops at Gyeryongdae military headquarters during the 77th Armed Forces Day ceremony, Lee declared, "The Republic of Korea will lead a joint defense posture with Washington by regaining the operational control based on the firm ROK-U.S. alliance."

He emphasized that, "A solid combined defense capability and posture will not only bring peace and stability to the Korean Peninsula but also contribute to the region's stability and shared prosperity."

This statement follows recent defense discussions between South Korean and U.S. officials, who convened last week to assess progress on conditions for transferring wartime operational command (OPCON) to Seoul—a follow-up to talks held in May.

South Korea, a long-standing U.S. ally, currently hosts approximately 28,500 American troops. While South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff maintain peacetime OPCON, wartime operational control remains with the U.S.-led Combined Forces Command.

The arrangement dates back to the 1950-53 Korean War when Seoul placed wartime control under the U.S.-led UN Command. In 1978, this authority was transferred to the Combined Forces Command. Although South Korea resumed peacetime control over its military in 1994, wartime OPCON continues to be held by the U.S.

President Lee’s vow signals a decisive push toward full South Korean autonomy over military operations during conflict, reflecting a strategic shift in the alliance’s defense framework.

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