(URGENT) Lee says wartime OPCON must be retaken at early date, cannot continue to leave in hands of another country

On Monday, October 19, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung reiterated his position that the nation must reclaim wartime operational control (OPCON) at an early date. Lee emphasized that South Korea cannot continue to leave its wartime command in the hands of another country.

The statement reflects a push for the transition of military authority, which currently remains under a combined command structure. By calling for an expedited timeline, the President underscored the administration's stance on national sovereignty regarding military operations during potential wartime scenarios.