U.S. Defense Chief: "Transfer of Wartime Operational Control Is a Great Thing"... Ahn: "We Welcome Active Support"
Ahn Gyu-baek Vows to Ensure Transfer Is Achieved Within Current Administration
On October 31, Minister of National Defense Ahn Gyu-baek stated that he "highly appreciates and welcomes the active support for Korea's efforts and determination regarding the transfer of wartime operational control," in response to U.S. Secretary of War (Defense) Pete Hegseth's assessment that Korea's push for the transfer of wartime operational control is "a great thing."
In an interview at Incheon International Airport on the same day, Minister Ahn said, "The transfer of wartime operational control will be pursued as quickly as possible within the current administration's term, while maintaining a strong South Korea-U.S. alliance and working closely together." Minister Ahn departed to attend the 12th ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on November 1.
Previously, on October 29 (local time), Secretary Hegseth told reporters aboard his ministerial aircraft en route to Malaysia that Korea's push for the transfer of wartime operational control is "a great thing," adding, "Korea is an excellent example of a reliable partner in combat, and not only that, Korea increasingly wants-and should-take on a leading role." This is the first time since the launch of the second Trump administration that a senior U.S. official has given such positive remarks regarding Korea's transfer of wartime operational control.
Hot Picks Today
!["Rather Than Endure a 1.5 Million KRW Stipend, I'd Rather Earn 500 Million in the U.S." Top Talent from SNU and KAIST Are Leaving [Scientists Are Disappearing] ①](https://cwcontent.asiae.co.kr/asiaresize/93/2026051914165468840_1779167814.png)
"Rather Than Endure a 1.5 Million KRW Stipend, I'd Rather Earn 500 Million in the U.S." Top Talent from SNU and KAIST Are Leaving [Scientists Are Disappearing] ①
- "Not Jealous of Winning the Lottery"... Entire Village Stunned as 200 Million Won Jackpot of Wild Ginseng Cluster Discovered at Jirisan
- "I'll Stop by Starbucks Tomorrow": People Power Chungbuk Committee and Geoje Mayoral Candidate Face Criticism for Alleged 5·18 Demeaning Remarks
- Iranian Military Spokesperson: "Ceasefire Was an Opportunity to Strengthen Forces... Ready to Respond to War"
- "How Did an Employee Who Loved Samsung End Up Like This?"... Past Video of Samsung Electronics Union Chairman Resurfaces
Meanwhile, regarding the upcoming ADMM-Plus, Minister Ahn said, "At this ASEAN security meeting, which is the first to be attended since the launch of the government of popular sovereignty, I plan to build partnerships with the defense ministers of participating countries, garner support and seek understanding for our Korean Peninsula policy through bilateral meetings, and at the same time actively promote defense industry cooperation."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
