(LEAD) UNC not to proceed with plan for security brigade after talks with S. Korea: defense minister

The United Nations Command (UNC) has decided not to advance its plan for creating a security brigade that would handle border security and armistice enforcement operations, according to South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back. This decision follows consultations between the UNC and South Korea. The plan, reportedly being considered, aimed to merge the UNC's border security battalion at Camp Bonifas in Paju and the secretariat of the Military Armistice Commission (MAC) at Camp Humphreys.

Ahn clarified that this means the security brigade will not be established or have a launch ceremony. South Korea has voiced opposition to the plan, which would consolidate these operations into one brigade led by the MAC commander. The UNC, however, has not confirmed whether the plan has been scrapped. The move highlights the ongoing tension between Seoul and the UNC, especially following the UNC's objection to Seoul's management of parts of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).