Presidential office distances itself from defense minister nominee’s OPCON remarks

Jul 16, 2025, 09:06 am

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Presidential spokesperson Kang Yoo-jung delivers a briefing on the Cabinet meeting at the presidential office in Yongsan on July 15. / Source: Yonhap News

The presidential office on July 15 downplayed remarks by Defense Minister nominee Ahn Gyu-baek, who said during his confirmation hearing that the government would aim to complete the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) within President Lee Jae-myung’s term.

Spokesperson Kang Yoo-jung told reporters at a briefing in Yongsan that Ahn’s comments were his “personal opinion.”

“The issue of OPCON transfer is not something the Lee administration suddenly raised—it has been a matter considered by successive administrations,” Kang said.

She added that while the current administration did mention OPCON transfer as part of its campaign pledges, the issue remains under review and subject to “thorough reporting and examination.”

Kang also made it clear that no specific timeline has been established within the presidential office, saying, “There is no set timeframe or number, such as completing it within five years, that exists within the presidential office.”

#OPCON #presidential office #defense minister nominee #Ahn Gyu-baek