U.S. Army Posts in South Korea: Historical and Current Installations
The presence of the United States Army in South Korea is defined by a vast network of installations that have evolved over decades. These posts serve as critical hubs for security and cooperation, strategically positioned to navigate Korea's challenging geography. Because the peninsula's mountainous terrain naturally channels movement along narrow north-south axes, military positioning has historically focused on key areas such as the Chorwon-Uijongbu Valley and the broader plains of the Kaesong-Munsan Corridor.
Over time, the footprint of these installations has shifted. While some remain active as primary garrisons, many others have been closed or turned over to the Republic of Korea (ROK) as part of strategic realignments.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Strategic Geography: Installations are often placed along narrow north-south axes and plains like the Kaesong-Munsan Corridor due to mountainous terrain.
- Major Hubs: Current significant installations include USAG Humphreys, USAG Daegu, and USAG Yongsan.
- ROK Transfers: Notable sites like Camp Bonifas (2006) and Camp Red Cloud (2018) have been returned to South Korean control.
- Historical Scale: Around 1982, the 2nd Infantry Division alone operated 17 camps, 27 sites, and 6 combat guard posts.
- Marine Presence: Camp Mujuk serves as the only U.S. Marine Corps Base in South Korea.
Current and Former Army Installations
The U.S. Army has maintained a diverse array of posts, ranging from large garrison areas to specialized heliports and ammunition depots. The status of these sites varies between active, closed, or in caretaker status.
Active and Major Installations
Several large-scale installations continue to provide essential infrastructure for U.S. forces. These include USAG Humphreys, USAG Daegu, and USAG Yongsan. Other active or partially active sites include Camp Carroll, Camp Casey, Camp George, Camp Henry, Camp Hovey, Camp Liberty Bell, Camp Long Jon, Camp Mobile, Camp Walker, and the K-16 Air Base.
Installations Returned to the Republic of Korea
As part of bilateral agreements, several posts have been handed back to the ROK government:
- Camp St Barbara: Turned over in 1971.
- Camp Bonifas: Turned over in 2006.
- Camp Red Cloud: Turned over in 2018.
- H220 Heliport: Turned over in May 2022.
Closed and Former Sites
A significant number of smaller camps and specialized sites have been closed. These include Camp Castle, Camp Colbern, Camp Eagle, Camp Edwards, Camp Eiler, Camp Essayons, Camp Falling Water, Camp Garry Owen, Camp Giant, Camp Greaves, and Hannam Village. Additionally, Camp Coiner saw a partial transition in December 2017, with its northern portion turned over to the U.S. Embassy while the southern portion remained open.
Summary of Notable Installations
| Installation Name | Status/Note | Key Detail |
|---|---|---|
| USAG Humphreys | Active | Major Army Garrison |
| Camp Bonifas | Turned over to ROK | Transferred in 2006 |
| Camp Red Cloud | Turned over to ROK | Transferred in 2018 |
| Camp Mujuk | Active | Only US Marine Corps Base |
| Camp Coiner | Partial | North portion to US Embassy (2017) |
| Camp St Barbara | Turned over to ROK | Transferred in 1971 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the only U.S. Marine Corps Base in South Korea?
Camp Mujuk is the only U.S. Marine Corps Base located in South Korea.
Why are military posts located in specific corridors like Kaesong-Munsan?
Because Korea's mountainous terrain limits movement, traditional invasion routes are channeled along narrow north-south axes and broader plains, making these corridors strategically vital for military positioning.
When was Camp Red Cloud returned to South Korea?
Camp Red Cloud was turned over to the Republic of Korea in 2018.
What happened to Camp Coiner in 2017?
In December 2017, the northern portion of Camp Coiner was turned over to the U.S. Embassy, while the southern portion remained open.
How many installations did the 2nd Infantry Division occupy around 1982?
Circa 1982, the 2nd Infantry Division occupied 17 camps, 27 sites, and 6 combat guard posts.