Ahn Gyubaek: "Korea-Japan Defense Talks Included ACSA Discussions... Still Exercising Caution"

The 23rd Asia Security Summit

Minister of National Defense Ahn Gyu-baek stated on May 31 that discussions regarding the Korea-Japan Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) took place during the defense ministers' meeting between South Korea and Japan. The ACSA is an agreement designed to facilitate mutual support of military supplies such as ammunition and fuel in times of emergency. The South Korean government has maintained a cautious stance on this matter due to concerns about the potential involvement of Japan’s Self-Defense Forces on the Korean Peninsula.

Yonhap News Agency

According to Yonhap News, Minister Ahn, speaking to reporters at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore—where the 23rd Asia Security Summit is currently being held—confirmed that ACSA-related discussions were held during the Korea-Japan defense ministers' meeting the previous day. However, Minister Ahn emphasized, “The issue of the ACSA requires the understanding and persuasion of both nations’ citizens, and for now, we must proceed with caution.”

During the Lee Myung-bak administration, there was an attempt to sign the Korea-Japan ACSA, but it was postponed due to public opposition. The Japanese side continues to strongly seek the signing of the ACSA, while the South Korean government remains cautious. Notably, this is the first time since the inauguration of the Lee Jae-myung administration that South Korea’s defense authorities have officially acknowledged discussions on the ACSA.

Nevertheless, the Ministry of National Defense stressed that “at present, the ACSA is premature and is not under consideration,” reaffirming that there has been no change in the government’s position.

In relation to this, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who attended the Asia Security Summit, stated during an official session that “Japan is ready to further expand cooperation with South Korea, but such progress must be supported by the Korean people.” He added, “While maintaining the good cooperative relationship established with Minister Ahn, I will do my utmost to create an environment in which further cooperation can develop.”

Meanwhile, Minister Ahn also revealed that he met with representatives from the U.S. House and Senate during the international conference, emphasizing South Korea’s commitment to the early transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON). He said, “I clearly conveyed to the U.S. lawmakers that even if the OPCON transfer were to happen tomorrow, there would be no difficulties.” He further noted, “The U.S. lawmakers showed understanding and satisfaction regarding our preparations for OPCON transfer.” Minister Ahn added, “The United States and South Korea agreed in 2020 that 94% of the conditions for OPCON transfer had already been met, and I provided ample explanations regarding our capabilities.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.