Military

South Korea Calls for Wartime Operational Control Amid Trump Statements

Is transferring wartime control to South Korea long overdue sovereignty or dangerous recklessness in a volatile region?

Published AUG 18

South Korea Calls for Wartime Operational Control Amid Trump Statements

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Above: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung at celebrations marking the 81st anniversary of Korean Liberation Day in Seoul on Aug. 15. Image credit: Lee Jin-man//AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Anti-Trump narrative

South Korea's dependence on U.S. wartime command could be considered a relic of an arrangement that treats a modern, capable military like a subordinate — but nevertheless, the historic U.S.-South Korea relationship is dangerously strained due to Trump's reckless comments.

Angelo Giuliano on X

Robert E. Kelly on X

Pro-Trump narrative

Rushing wartime operational control transfer to South Korea is pride-driven recklessness in response to President Trump's strategic adjustments. South Korea needs to get on the same page as the Trump administration, and fast.

only YOON on X

Koreans Stand With Israel on X

Eric Daugherty on X