Pyeongtaek:Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul emphasized the strength of the South Korea-U.S. alliance and their combined military readiness during his inaugural visit to the primary U.S. military base in South Korea, located south of Seoul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, this marked Kang's first visit to Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek since assuming his role last month. During the visit, he met with U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson to discuss "key pending issues," although specific details were not disclosed by the defense ministry.
Kang reaffirmed the robust defense posture and coordination between the two nations. He stressed the significance of being prepared to "fight together," learning from historical conflicts, and called for a strong defense stance amid the tense security situation on the Korean Peninsula.
The discussions may have touched on recent incidents such as a land mine explosion in the Demilitarized Zone that injured three South Korean soldiers. Topics likely included ongoing efforts regarding the transition of wartime operational control of South Korean troops from Washington to Seoul.
Kang also praised the leadership of the U.S. Forces Korea, the United Nations Command, and the Combined Forces Command for their dedication to maintaining peace and stability in the region.