Bangkok: The United States is committed to ensuring the conditions necessary for the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea are met “as soon as possible,” a senior U.S. diplomat stated. The U.S. acknowledges Seoul’s urgency in reclaiming OPCON swiftly, as expressed by Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Michael DeSombre, during a hearing of the Subcommittee on East Asia and Pacific Affairs under the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
According to Yonhap News Agency, DeSombre highlighted ongoing negotiations regarding the timing of the transfer. He emphasized the U.S. administration’s understanding of South Korea’s eagerness to expedite the process and reiterated that both nations are concentrating on establishing the necessary conditions promptly. The OPCON transition is being pursued under a “conditions-based” framework, requiring specific criteria to be satisfied for both parties to ensure continued deterrence in Korea.
The administration of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is working towards fulfilling the requirements to facilitate the transfer by the end of its term in 2030. These prerequisites include Seoul’s capacity to lead the combined South Korea-U.S. forces, its strike and air defense capabilities, and a regional environment conducive to the transition.
DeSombre’s remarks come amid apparent differences between Seoul and Washington regarding the timing of the OPCON handover. South Korean officials are actively working to meet the transfer conditions, suggesting that the transition could occur as early as next year. However, U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson has indicated that the allies aim to fulfill the conditions by the first quarter of 2029.
Historically, South Korea transferred operational control of its troops to the U.S.-led U.N. Command during the 1950-53 Korean War. It was later handed over to the allies’ Combined Forces Command in 1978. While Seoul regained peacetime OPCON in 1994, wartime operational control remains with the United States.
Additionally, during the hearing, DeSombre addressed the issue of Coupang Inc., a U.S.-listed company that faced scrutiny for a significant data breach in South Korea. He emphasized the importance of fair treatment for American firms in South Korea and expressed dissatisfaction with the treatment Coupang received. The U.S. continues to engage with South Korea to ensure equitable treatment of American enterprises.