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South Korea to Reclaim Wartime Control from US by 2030

5/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Lee Jae Myung announced his administration will reclaim wartime operational control from the United States before 2030.
Defence officials said recent Washington talks moved toward realistic management of certain Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) sections.
A ministry spokesperson clarified the plan does not include joint or divided DMZ control.
Seoul affirmed respect for United Nations Command authority and consulted the United States on technical DMZ arrangements.

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Story summary

President Lee Jae Myung announced his administration will reclaim wartime operational control from the United States before 2030.
Defence officials said recent Washington talks moved toward realistic management of certain Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) sections.
A ministry spokesperson clarified the plan does not include joint or divided DMZ control.
Seoul affirmed respect for United Nations Command authority and consulted the United States on technical DMZ arrangements.