FM Cho Lodges Complaint to U.S. Envoy Over USFK Chief's Remarks

On October 27, South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun announced that he lodged a formal complaint with U.S. Ambassador to South Korea, Michelle Steel, concerning remarks made by the commander of U.S. Forces Korea (USFK), General Xavier Brunson.

The controversy arose from comments made by Brunson during a seminar in Washington, where he stated that, from the perspective of the United Nations Command (UNC), South Korean territory begins at the southern fence line of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This statement has sparked accusations that Brunson was questioning South Korea's territorial sovereignty.

Cho emphasized the importance of addressing these remarks during a parliamentary audit, stating, "I will raise the matter with the U.S. side again." He also noted that the South Korean government has conveyed its concerns through various channels, and the U.S. has acknowledged and understood Seoul's unease.

In response to the controversy, the UNC clarified that Brunson's comments were related to military responsibilities under the Armistice Agreement and did not question South Korea's sovereignty. However, lawmakers have urged the ministry to issue a strong protest regarding Brunson's remarks about operational control transfer, which he suggested had changed conditions.

The South Korean government remains committed to retaking wartime operational control from the U.S. as soon as possible, with ongoing discussions between military authorities from both nations about the timing of this transfer.