PPP slams defense minister over remarks on trusting US forces in event of war with N. Korea
The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) on Wednesday accused Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul of undermining the South Korea-U.S. alliance over his remarks about trusting the U.S. military in the event of a war with North Korea. Kang came under fire during a parliamentary audit Monday when he questioned whether South Korea can "really trust the U.S. military" if a war broke out with North…
The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) has criticized Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul for undermining the South Korea-U.S. alliance with his remarks on trusting U.S. forces in the event of a war with North Korea. During a parliamentary audit on Monday, Kang questioned whether South Korea can truly rely on the U.S. military if a conflict with North Korea erupts, in response to an opposition lawmaker's concerns over Seoul's desire to regain wartime operational control (OPCON) from Washington.
The PPP's chief spokesperson, Park Choong-kwon, harshly condemned Kang's comments, stating that they are eroding the trust in the 73-year-old alliance. Rep. Park pointed out that Kang proceeded with the OPCON transfer without holding any discussions with U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth since assuming office last month. He urged President Lee Jae Myung to immediately remove Kang from his position, alleging that he is no longer fit to serve as defense minister.
Several other lawmakers also expressed their disapproval of Kang's remarks, expressing doubts about his understanding of national security.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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