South Korean National Security Advisor discusses defense and foreign policy

Wartime Operational Control Cheonghae Unit Strait of Hormuz National Security Advisor Demilitarized Zone

National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac announced that practical progress regarding the transfer of wartime operational control is expected following the South Korea-US defense ministers' meeting in December and the Security Consultative Meeting (SCM) early next year. He noted that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reaffirmed US commitment to this transition.

Regarding maritime security, Wi stated the government is considering expanding the activities of the Cheonghae Unit to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, noting that major nations like the UK, France, and Japan are deploying naval assets to the region. He emphasized that South Korea will maintain a principle of non-involvement in active warfare while focusing on protecting merchant vessels and securing oil transport.

Addressing domestic security, Wi confirmed that the government is taking strict measures following a recent incident where a South Korean soldier was injured by a North Korean landmine in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). He stated that investigations with the UN Command confirmed the landmine was a violation of the armistice agreement.

On international relations, Wi addressed tensions with Ukraine regarding the repatriation of North Korean prisoners, stating that South Korea will continue to support Ukraine and maintain sanctions against Russia while handling bilateral issues through separate discussions to restore trust.

Entities

Cheonghae Unit · Democratic Party of Korea · Jin Seong-jun · Lee Jun-seok · National Assembly Defense Committee · National Assembly of South Korea · People Power Party · Pete Hegseth · Strait of Hormuz · US Indo-Pacific Command · United Nations Command · Wi Sung-lac

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 2 SOURCES] The South Korean government is considering expanding the activities of the Cheonghae Unit in the Strait of Hormuz. www.hidomin.com · www.imaeil.com
[● 2 SOURCES] A joint investigation with the UN Command confirmed North Korean landmines caused a recent injury in the DMZ. www.hidomin.com · www.imaeil.com
[● 2 SOURCES] South Korea will continue to participate in international efforts to support Ukraine. www.hidomin.com · www.imaeil.com
[● 2 SOURCES] Practical results regarding the transfer of wartime operational control are expected by early next year. www.hidomin.com · www.imaeil.com
[● 2 SOURCES] US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed the US commitment to the transfer of wartime operational control. www.hidomin.com · www.imaeil.com