Defense ministry says Kang's 'U.S. trust' remarks meant to counter lawmaker's OPCON transfer doubts

Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul's comments on the United States' trust were aimed at addressing doubts raised by a lawmaker regarding Seoul's efforts to regain wartime operational control (OPCON) from Washington, according to the defense ministry. Kang's remarks on Monday drew significant media attention as he countered an opposition lawmaker's skepticism about the OPCON transition.

Drawing on concerns about an unstable global security environment, in which even a military superpower like the United States faces challenges, Kang emphasized the need for trust in the U.S. military should a conflict with North Korea arise. Kang specifically stated that a foundation of trust is essential for the OPCON transition, proposing a combined forces system led by a South Korean general with the U.S. military in a supporting role.

However, domestic media outlets reported the remarks as implying the minister had questioned the credibility of the U.S. ally.