South Korean Minister of National Defense An Gyu-baek said the transfer of wartime operational control to South Korea could be carried out immediately.
The announcement signals a push for greater military autonomy in Seoul. The transfer of this authority from the U.S. to South Korea is a long-standing point of strategic negotiation and national sovereignty.
Speaking on the final day of the Asia Security Conference in Singapore, An said that 94% [1] of the conditions for transferring wartime operational control were already met in 2020. He said the public disclosure of this figure was an unusual move intended to demonstrate the readiness of the South Korean military.
An said that even if the transfer occurred tomorrow, there would be no difficulties in the process [1]. The minister said the preconditions for the handover are essentially satisfied.
Beyond the transfer of operational control, An requested U.S. support for South Korea's goal of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines [1]. This request reflects a broader effort to enhance the nation's independent maritime deterrence capabilities.
The minister's remarks emphasize a desire to move beyond the current command structure. By highlighting the 2020 data, An said the delay in the transfer is not due to a lack of capability on the part of South Korea [1].
“"Even if the transfer occurred tomorrow, there would be no difficulties in the process."”
The disclosure that South Korea met nearly all operational requirements years ago shifts the conversation from military readiness to political will. By framing the transition as a matter of administrative timing rather than capability, Seoul is increasing pressure on the U.S. to finalize the handover while simultaneously seeking more advanced naval assets to secure the peninsula.
