Lee vows to regain OPCON without fail before end of term in 2028

President Lee Jae Myung pledged on Tuesday to regain operational control of South Korea's military forces, known as OPCON, without fail before the end of his term in 2028. "The Republic of Korea is fifth in the world in military power," Lee asserted during a Cabinet meeting at the Blue House, which took place during civil defense drills alongside the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises with the US.

He further stated, "Our national defense capabilities are among the top four globally, and defense spending is 1.4 times the gross national product of North Korea." Lee contended that his country's self-defense capacity is already among the world's elite, rendering it more than sufficient. To bolster these capabilities, he emphasized the need to enhance operational readiness and establish a comprehensive human resource development system.

Regaining OPCON by 2028 is a key objective for Seoul. Additionally, the president advocated for the smooth initiation of an integrated four-year academy for the army, navy, and air force, as well as accelerating the construction of nuclear-powered submarines, which symbolize the future of a robust alliance with the United States.

Prior to the meeting, Lee presided over a plenary session of the National Security Council to evaluate the military's readiness for total war in a wartime scenario, along with the necessary procedures and measures for such a transition by agency. He underscored that while peace is paramount, preparation for the worst-case scenario is equally essential.

The president stressed that the Ulchi exercises must be conducted as practical drills to safeguard the lives and security of the Korean people and ensure national security during emergencies. Moreover, Lee clarified that the Ulchi exercises are defensive in nature, aimed at protecting the well-being and safety of the populace, and there is no intention to use them to attack North Korea or escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula.

He reiterated that the basic purpose of the exercises is not to target a specific entity but to safeguard safety and peace in the daily lives of Koreans.