United States Forces Korea

Force in Play

As of August 2026: Cut Ulchi Freedom Shield short by six days after Trump's order, canceling or simulating some live-training events

President Trump ordered the Pentagon to shrink the largest annual U.S.-South Korea military exercise. The drill ended six days early, on Aug. 21 instead of the planned Aug. 27, after the Pentagon canceled or simulated some live-training events.

Updated Aug 20

Force in Play

As of May 2026: Supporting OPCON transition while maintaining readiness

South Korea handed control of its military to the United States during the Korean War's desperate opening weeks in 1950. Seventy-five years later, Seoul is finally on the verge of getting it back. The new permanent Combined Ground Component Command—activated in January 2026—is the fourth of six command structures now operating year-round, putting a Korean general at the helm of ground forces for the first time.

Updated May 20