Seoul:South Korea and the United States are discussing a new date for their high-level defense dialogue, which has been delayed until after the U.S. midterm elections, according to informed sources. The annual Security Consultative Meeting (SCM), typically held in early November, is expected to be rescheduled primarily due to the elections on November 3. This year's SCM is to be hosted by Washington.
According to Yonhap News Agency, both nations have reached a mutual understanding to postpone the talks. The delay highlights differing views between Seoul and Washington regarding the timing of transferring wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea. Seoul is eager to regain OPCON before the end of President Lee Jae Myung's term in 2030, or potentially as early as next year, while Washington has shown caution due to political considerations.
Sources indicate that the U.S. suggested rescheduling the meeting, balancing electoral and other factors. Both sides agree on delaying the talks, which are essential for discussing defense strategies and military readiness against North Korea.
The South Korean defense ministry is coordinating with its U.S. counterpart to find a suitable date, though no specifics have been finalized. The Chosun Ilbo reported a potential postponement to December, amid speculation about Seoul's progress on the OPCON transition.
Currently, both countries are evaluating South Korea's "full operational capability" (FOC) in the transition process. Despite completing joint evaluations for the year, Washington is reportedly skeptical about Seoul's readiness for FOC certification. The U.S. Forces Korea emphasized that OPCON transition is a conditions-based process agreed upon by both nations, and joint assessments are ongoing.
Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul acknowledged differing perspectives on the OPCON transition but emphasized trust and stated there are no significant disagreements. He is also arranging a meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the upcoming ADMM Plus meeting in the Philippines to further discuss these issues.