Seoul: South Korean and US defense ministers are set to engage in their annual security talks in Seoul on Tuesday to address a range of security issues. This meeting is part of an ongoing effort by Seoul and Washington to “modernize” their long-standing alliance amid evolving security dynamics.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-baik and US Defense Secretary Pete Higseth will jointly preside over the 57th Security Consultative Meeting at the Ministry of National Defense. This marks their inaugural co-chairmanship since taking office earlier this year.

The agenda for this year’s meeting includes discussions on critical alliance and security matters, such as the “strategic flexibility” of US forces stationed in South Korea and Seoul’s initiative to regain wartime operational control from Washington. Additionally, both sides are anticipated to explore Seoul’s pursuit of acquiring a nuclear-powered submarine, following recent discussions between President Lee Jae-myung and US President Donald Trump.

South Korea has committed to reclaiming control over its military operations from Washington during President Lee Jae-myung’s tenure, which concludes in 2030. This meeting occurs against the backdrop of North Korea’s strengthening military ties with Russia and its ongoing development of nuclear and missile capabilities, including the recent unveiling of the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile.

The South Korean Defense Ministry has outlined several key agenda items for the bilateral defense talks, including policy coordination on North Korea, joint defense posture, extended deterrence, and naval maintenance, repair, and modernization.