Seoul: Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back stated that a recent raid by a special counsel team at Osan Air Base did not necessitate consultations with the United States, despite a formal complaint reportedly lodged by U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) regarding the operation.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn's statement came in response to concerns raised by USFK Deputy Commander Lt. Gen. David Iverson. Iverson reportedly communicated with Seoul's foreign ministry, expressing unease over the raid conducted in July, which was part of an investigation into former President Yoon Suk Yeol's martial law bid. The search took place at an Air Force Master Control and Reporting Center, a facility managed by the South Korean military but located on a base jointly operated with the U.S.
The U.S. military reportedly believed prior consultation was necessary because investigators traversed areas under USFK control. However, Ahn emphasized that the search occurred in zones administered by the South Korean military. He clarified during a parliamentary audit session that the South Korean and U.S. military facilities at Osan Air Base have distinct boundaries, sharing only access points.
Ahn further noted that the raid did not contravene the bilateral Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), which governs the presence of U.S. troops in South Korea. He acknowledged awareness of the USFK's complaint but indicated that any misunderstandings had been resolved through discussions with the foreign ministry.
Additionally, the special counsel team maintained that it adhered to SOFA guidelines, asserting investigators had prior authorization and were accompanied by South Korean troops, in line with an existing memorandum of understanding between the allies.
Meanwhile, the USFK reiterated its commitment to cooperating with South Korean authorities but refrained from commenting further on ongoing investigations involving external entities.