Main opposition slams gov't over S. Korea-U.S. gap on OPCON transfer

During a parliamentary audit on Thursday, Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul insisted that the conditions for transferring wartime operational control (OPCON) to South Korea remain unchanged, despite calls for new standards from the United States. U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Xavier Brunson, however, highlighted that conditions have changed, citing North Korea's recent missile launches as a reason for potential adjustments in the OPCON transfer process.

The opposition People Power Party (PPP) strongly criticized the government's stance on the issue, accusing the Lee Jae Myung administration and the ruling Democratic Party of making intimidating remarks directed at U.S. Forces Korea Commander Gen. Brunson. PPP Chief Floor Spokesperson Rep. Kim Tae-kyu expressed concern over the emotional and irresponsible comments made by a ministry responsible for national security.

PPP Secretary-General Rep. Jung Hee-yong warned that the security situation is too grave to rush the transfer, given North Korea's continued advancement in nuclear and missile capabilities. He stressed that failing to lodge a single protest against Pyongyang's provocations while hastily pushing for the OPCON transfer only increases public anxiety over the nation's security.