South Korea has denied a report suggesting that the combined command structure between the United States and South Korea would be dissolved after Seoul retakes wartime operational control (OPCON). The denial was issued by the South Korean Ministry of National Defense on May 28, 2026.
The report, which the ministry described as inaccurate, claimed that the allies were considering dismantling the combined command once the OPCON transfer is completed. The ministry emphasized that the current combined command system will be maintained to ensure a robust defense posture against North Korean threats.
South Korea and the United States have been working on the OPCON transfer, which would give Seoul primary authority over its forces during wartime. The process has been delayed multiple times due to security concerns and the need for South Korean military capabilities to reach a certain level.
The denial comes amid ongoing discussions between the two allies about the future of their military alliance. Both sides have reiterated their commitment to a strong and coordinated defense, with the combined command playing a central role in deterring aggression.
