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 move forward with plans to establish a new brigade tasked with border security and enforcing the armistice agreement, following discussions with South Korea, according to Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back. This decision comes after reports emerged suggesting the UNC intended to consolidate its security battalion at Camp Bonifas in Paju and the Military Armistice Commission's secretariat at Camp Humphreys into a single brigade, led by the MAC commander.

South Korea has reportedly opposed the plan, and Ahn confirmed that the UNC and South Korea agreed it likely wouldn't proceed. The defense ministry also stated that South Korea has lodged an objection to the U.S. Forces Korea Commander, Gen. Xavier Brunson, who serves as UNC commander. The UNC maintains it is merely conducting a review of its resources to streamline its operations, with no increase in personnel, infrastructure, or capabilities planned.