On September 23, Defense Minister Kang Shin-cheol met with U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Michelle Steel at the Ministry of Defense to discuss regional security, the transfer of wartime operational control, and key alliance issues including the Gwangju military airport.
According to the Ministry of Defense, Minister Kang welcomed Ambassador Steel's visit and expressed his deep understanding of the ambassador's significant responsibilities, drawing from his own experience as the former ambassador to Saudi Arabia. He urged Steel to serve as a strong bridge connecting trust and cooperation between the two countries to advance the South Korea-U.S. alliance.
Kang assessed that the South Korea-U.S. alliance has evolved into a future-oriented, comprehensive strategic partnership that contributes to the joint prosperity of both nations and regional peace and stability, based on a solid security alliance. He emphasized the importance of maintaining close communication and cooperation to further strengthen the alliance.
Ambassador Steel agreed, stating that she would do her utmost to maintain and further develop the strong South Korea-U.S. alliance amid uncertain security conditions.
The two sides also exchanged views on the transfer of wartime operational control and the Gwangju military airport, agreeing to maintain close communication for the future-oriented and mutually beneficial development of the alliance.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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