Maj. Gen. William D. “Hank” Taylor, the Chief of Operations for U.S. Forces Korea (USFK), United Nations Command (UNC), and the Combined Forces Command (CFC), recently addressed concerns regarding the potential reduction of U.S. troops in South Korea following the inauguration of President Donald Trump’s second term. He emphasized the military’s commitment to maintaining a robust, forward-deployed presence in the region.
Gen. Taylor stated their priority is maintaining a strong force capable of ensuring deterrence and preserving regional stability.
The remarks came in response to speculation that the Trump administration might leverage defense cost-sharing negotiations with South Korea by suggesting reducing or withdrawing U.S. troops stationed there. Yonhap News reported Taylor’s comments on Tuesday, in which he also refrained from discussing specific operational details but reassured that the U.S.-South Korea alliance is constantly adapting its strategies to meet emerging challenges.
He highlighted the expanded role of cyber operations in this year’s joint military exercises, underscoring the evolving nature of modern warfare. Taylor explained that the exercises address emerging threats, including cyberattacks, GPS jamming, and drone warfare.
In response to North Korea’s criticism of the joint Freedom Shield exercise as a war rehearsal, Taylor firmly rebuffed the claim, stating that it is neither a nuclear war exercise nor includes any preemptive strike scenarios. He asserted that all their exercises comply with international law, mutual defense treaty obligations, and their commitment to regional security.
He also dismissed North Korea’s allegations as disinformation intended to justify its aggressive posture. Taylor pointed out that the North’s accusations overlook their actions, such as ballistic missile launches and their refusal to engage in meaningful dialogue, which contribute to regional instability.
The General acknowledged the increasing significance of asymmetric threats and emphasized that the U.S. and South Korea continually enhance their capabilities to counter these emerging challenges. Regarding the transition of wartime operational control (OPCON) from U.S. to South Korean forces, Taylor reiterated that the process is grounded in mutually agreed conditions. He stated that the transfer of operational control is based on the ability to effectively counter North Korean threats and ensure the region’s security.
Taylor commanded the U.S. 2nd Infantry Division and the Combined Division of U.S. Forces Korea from 2023 until last year. In 2023, he assumed his current role as Chief of Operations for USFK, UNC, and CFC.