Army Invites Families of Remote-Post Soldiers to Gyeryongdae, Awards Leave and Travel Vouchers
Army Chief of Staff Gen. Kim Gyu-ha: “Troops at remote posts are the Army’s backbone…we thank families for their patience”
Army Chief of Staff Gen. Kim Gyu-ha: “Troops at remote posts are the Army’s backbone…we thank families for their patience”
The Army held the May “Ami Together” event at Gyeryongdae in South Chungcheong Province on April 30 to thank service members and military families ahead of May, the month traditionally dedicated to family. The program recognized the sacrifices of soldiers and their households, familiarized the public with the Army, and underscored the force’s role in safeguarding everyday life. According to the Army, the family-invitation ceremony at Mugunghwa Hall, Gyeryongdae, welcomed outstanding officers and their families from 27 households who served at remote frontline and coastal posts. The service honored those who contributed to national security and the families who supported them with a luncheon, reward leave and Jeju family travel vouchers.
Chief of Staff Gen. Kim Gyu-ha said, “Soldiers who carry out missions at remote posts are the Army’s steady backbone. Their dedication is made possible by the understanding, care, love and patience of their families.” He added, “We will continue improving service conditions and quality of life so soldiers and their families can take pride in their service, and we will expand policies that help balance military duties with family life.”
Staff Sergeant Kang Jae-gu of the 7th Division said, “Serving at a GOP outpost increases my sense of duty as a soldier, but I often felt sorry for my family as a husband and father. Today gave me a meaningful chance to thank the family who has stood by me quietly.”
The “Ami Together” festival on the Gyeryongdae parade ground was set up as an interactive event for military families and the public. Visitors toured the base, enjoyed a children’s play area, watched a drone show, and saw performances by the military band and Taekwondo demonstration team. The festival also included a family gift raffle, a “golden carriage” attraction, a recruiting information booth, equipment displays with ride-on opportunities, uniform try-on stations and photo zones. Families, including children and teens, participated in performances and activities designed to give them a closer, more approachable view of the Army. Kim Dong-woo, the son of Staff Sergeant Son Mi-yeon, who is assigned to Gyeryongdae, said, “Seeing where my mom works was amazing, and I was proud to see her in uniform.”
Starting with this event, the Army will open all units to the public throughout May and run a focused recruitment outreach month. Officials said the initiatives aim to expand public engagement and strengthen trust in the Army through on-site communication and hands-on experiences.
Major General Jang Hee-yeol, director of the Army Headquarters Personnel Staff, said, “This event expressed thanks and encouragement to outstanding officers and their families, and it offered citizens a direct way to experience and understand the Army. We will continue to expand opportunities for public engagement to build a stronger, more trusted Army.”
