Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul, addressing the issue of wartime operational control (OPCON) transfer on the 26th, questioned, “Can we truly rely on the U.S. military in the event of a conflict with North Korea?” The minister previously held the role of deputy commander in the ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command.
During a thorough review session at the National Assembly’s Defense Committee that day, Minister Kang answered a query from Sung Il-jong, a lawmaker representing the People Power Party, who stressed the importance of prudence in proceeding with the OPCON transfer.
Sung remarked, “The transfer of operational control is far from a minor matter—it touches upon the very survival of our nation and the safety of our citizens,” and urged the minister to approach the president with the highest level of caution on this issue.
In reply, Minister Kang countered, “Suggesting that transferring OPCON would result in national collapse or endanger our survival is an exaggeration. Are you not aware that the U.S. is currently engaged in conflict with Iran? Then, why doubt the reliability of the U.S. military should war erupt with North Korea?”
He added, “Given sufficient trust, transferring OPCON will enable South Korean generals to lead operations they are well-acquainted with, while the U.S. military offers backing—this is the framework we intend to implement.”
Addressing Sung’s suggestion that diminished trust between South Korea and the U.S. hinders video intelligence sharing, Kang stated, “That claim is also overstated. We are, in fact, exchanging intelligence effectively.”
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