Defense Minister Shin Won-sik Confident in Early Transfer of Wartime Operational Control from US

South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik has signaled a strong commitment to accelerating the transfer of wartime operational control (SPO) from the United States, asserting that the process is on track and faces no significant obstacles. During his first official visit to the U.S. as Defense Minister, Shin aims to solidify this objective in high-level talks with his American counterparts, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

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We have been preparing systematically, stably, and consistently.

The minister's remarks suggest a divergence from the U.S. military's timeline, as he indicated that South Korea proposed finalizing the SPO transfer year at the Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) late last year. While the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command chief recently suggested a target completion date in the first quarter of 2029, Shin's stance implies a desire for an earlier handover, aligning with the previous administration's goal of completing the transfer by 2028.

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I believe there are no major problems in accelerating the transfer of operational control. South Korean and U.S. authorities made significant progress under a conditions-based agreement regarding the transfer of operational control in 2015.

Beyond the SPO, the defense talks are expected to delve into crucial areas of bilateral cooperation, including the joint development of nuclear-powered submarines and the resumption of intelligence sharing related to North Korea's nuclear activities. Shin's proactive approach underscores South Korea's determination to enhance its defense capabilities and take a more central role in regional security, while navigating the complex dynamics of the alliance with the United States.

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At last year's Korea-U.S. Security Consultative Meeting (SCM), we proposed to finalize the year of (SPO transfer) at this year's SCM. This will be one of the main agenda items again.