Navy Bases South Korea

Fleet Activities Chinhae

Fleet Activities Chinhae PCS Guide

Fleet Activities Chinhae sits in Chinhae, Korea, South, serving as a key U.S. Navy installation in the region. This base supports naval operations, logistics, and joint exercises, making it vital for regional security. Military families find limited on-base housing, with most choosing off-base options and local international schools. The base is known for its small size, tight-knit community, and proximity to Busan.
Chinhae, Korea, South
Established
August 1, 1946
Primary Mission
Naval operations and logistics support
Population
Approximately 1,000 personnel
Nearest Major City
Busan
On-Base Housing
Limited; most families live off-base
Known For
Small footprint, close-knit American community

Military Base History

250327-N-JM360-2005 CHINHAE, South Korea (Mar. 27, 2025) – Utilitiesman 2nd Class Michael Fields, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3, reenlist in U.S Navy. NMCB-3 serves as the stand-in engineering force for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, executing high-quality construction...

Fleet Activities Chinhae started as a small U.S. Navy presence in South Korea after World War II. The base’s original mission was to support U.S. and allied naval operations as tensions increased on the Korean Peninsula.

The base provided logistics, repair, and administrative support for both U.S. and Republic of Korea Navy vessels. These services helped maintain operational readiness in a rapidly changing region.

During the Korean War (1950–1953), Chinhae became a critical logistics and support hub. U.S. Navy personnel managed port operations and coordinated supply shipments to support combat operations.

The base expanded its facilities to accommodate increased activity. New barracks, maintenance shops, and storage areas were built to meet the demands of the war.

Throughout the Cold War, Fleet Activities Chinhae played a vital role in regional security. The base hosted rotational U.S. Navy units and supported joint exercises with South Korean forces.

Its mission evolved to include anti-submarine warfare training and coordination of maritime patrols. These activities strengthened the partnership between U.S. and South Korean navies.

Today, Fleet Activities Chinhae serves as the primary U.S. Navy installation in South Korea. The base supports forward-deployed naval forces and provides logistics and administrative support.

It also fosters U.S.-ROK naval cooperation and remains a key part of the U.S. commitment to security in Northeast Asia. The base has retained its original name, though it is sometimes called Commander, Fleet Activities Chinhae (CFAC).

Major Units & Training Programs

250327-N-JM360-2005 CHINHAE, South Korea (Mar. 27, 2025) – Utilitiesman 2nd Class Michael Fields, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 3, reenlist in U.S Navy. NMCB-3 serves as the stand-in engineering force for Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, executing high-quality construction...

Major Units

Commander, Fleet Activities Chinhae (CFAC)

CFAC provides shore support for U.S. Navy operations in the Republic of Korea, serving as the primary U.S. naval installation in the region and supporting fleet units, logistics, and personnel.

U.S. Naval Forces Korea (CNFK) Detachment Chinhae

This detachment supports U.S. Navy operational planning, coordination, and liaison with Republic of Korea Navy forces, enhancing combined maritime security and readiness on the Korean Peninsula.

Arrival & In-Processing

211004-N-VN217-1001 CHINHAE, South Korea (Oct. 4, 2021) Builder 3rd Class Antonio LopezCardona (front) and Builders 2nd Class Harley Johnston, assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 5, remove roofing before repairing the main gate guard shack onboard Commander, Fleet Activities...

Welcome to Fleet Activities Chinhae! Arriving at a new duty station can be exciting and stressful, but being prepared makes your check-in smooth and efficient. Review all requirements before your arrival to ensure a seamless transition for you and your family. For the latest updates and detailed resources, visit the official Fleet Activities Chinhae website.

PCS & Relocation Essentials

Ronald Jackson and Marsha Whitmire, quality assurance inspectors with the 72nd Logistics Readiness Squadron, inspect a moldy pallet at the business location of a local moving company. The company had received the pallet in less-than-desirable condition and immediately notified the Personal Property and Passenger Movement Section.

Start your PCS to Fleet Activities Chinhae by reviewing your orders and contacting your local Transportation Office right away. You’ll need to decide between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where the government arranges movers, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, formerly DITY), where you handle your own move and may receive reimbursement. Both options require you to use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to set up and track your move.

Know your entitlements before you go. You may qualify for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to help offset hotel costs at your new duty station, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to cover PCS expenses not reimbursed elsewhere. Check your eligibility and rates on the DoD Per Diem website. Make sure to keep receipts and important documents handy throughout the process. Fleet Activities Chinhae offers support for newcomers, but plan ahead for shipping times and overseas requirements.

Temporary Lodging Information

Up to 10 days of TLE are authorized for CONUS locations.

Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance

Local Transportation Office
Contact the Base Transportation Office. See Base Directory for current phone number and email.

PCS Tips

  • Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
  • Upload all PCS documents to DPS and keep copies with you.
  • Check HHG weight limits and avoid excess costs.
  • Label boxes with your name and new address.
  • Take photos of valuables before pack-out.
  • Contact the Base Transportation Office for specific shipping timelines.
  • Review pet import requirements early if bringing animals.

Important Forms & Links

DPS (Defense Personal Property System) Login

Set up and track your PCS move

DoD Allowances & Per Diem Rates

Official rates for TLE, DLA, and more

Military OneSource PCS Resources

Guidance and planning tools for your PCS

DLA Calculator

Estimate your Dislocation Allowance

Fleet Activities Chinhae Welcome Aboard

Official base newcomer and contact info

Housing Options

BAH Rates (2025)

BAH Rate MHA code mapping not found for Fleet Activities Chinhae.

On-Base Neighborhoods

Fleet Activities Chinhae Family Housing

Fleet Activities Chinhae offers a small number of on-base family housing units. These are usually townhouses or apartments with modern amenities, playgrounds, and easy access to base services. Demand is high and waitlists are common for families.

Visit Website

Unaccompanied Housing (UH)

Unaccompanied Housing at CFA Chinhae is reserved for single or unaccompanied junior enlisted personnel. Facilities include furnished rooms, laundry, and shared common areas. Proximity to the base and community support make this a convenient option.

Visit Website

Off-Base Areas

Jinhae-gu (Chinhae District)

5-10 minutes ₩900,000–₩1,400,000/month (about $700–$1,100 USD) for a 3-bedroom apartment

Jinhae-gu surrounds the base and is popular for its convenience, walkable shopping, and local restaurants. Most rentals are modern apartments. The area is family-friendly and offers easy access to schools and parks.

Changwon City

20-35 minutes ₩1,100,000–₩1,800,000/month (about $850–$1,400 USD) for a 3-bedroom apartment

Changwon City is larger and more urban, with more rental options, international grocery stores, and vibrant nightlife. Commute is longer but public transit is reliable. Good choice for those seeking city amenities.

Masanhappo-gu

30-40 minutes ₩950,000–₩1,500,000/month (about $750–$1,150 USD) for a 3-bedroom apartment

Masanhappo-gu offers a quieter, suburban feel with traditional markets and scenic water views. Families appreciate the slower pace, though commutes are longer and English services are less common.

Lodging Options

Fleet Activities Chinhae offers limited on-base lodging, so it's essential to book early—especially during peak PCS season. Temporary Lodging Facilities (TLFs) fill up fast, and walk-in availability is rare. Most TLFs prioritize incoming and outgoing PCS families, but space may be available for TDY personnel if booked in advance. Typical stays range from 10 to 30 days, depending on status and demand. Pet-friendly rooms are very limited; always confirm availability and request pet accommodations early if needed. Some facilities require vaccination records and may charge extra cleaning fees for pets. Early planning ensures you have the best chance at securing a room that fits your needs.

On-Base Lodging

Navy Gateway Inns & Suites Chinhae

Navy Gateway Inns & Suites Chinhae provides comfortable rooms for PCS, TDY, and leisure travelers. Rooms feature private baths, mini-fridges, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi. Limited pet-friendly rooms are available—request early and provide pet documentation. Amenities include laundry facilities, business center, and 24-hour front desk. Eligible guests include active duty, DoD civilians, and authorized contractors.

Contact: DSN: 762-6818 | Commercial: +82-55-540-6818 | Email: chinhae@ngis.dodlodging.net

Visit Website

Nearby Off-Base Hotels

Changwon Pullman Ambassador Hotel

10 miles / 25 min drive

Modern hotel with military discount—show orders at check-in. Pet-friendly rooms available with advance notice and fee. Free breakfast buffet and close to shopping and restaurants. Easy access to base via taxi or car.

Visit Website

Hotel Avenue Changwon

9 miles / 20 min drive

Popular with military and DoD travelers. Offers government rates, free breakfast, and Wi-Fi. No pet rooms—confirm before booking. Located in central Changwon, close to dining and shops.

Visit Website

Crown Hotel Changwon

8.5 miles / 20 min drive

Budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and free breakfast. No pets allowed. Offers shuttle service to Fleet Activities Chinhae (confirm availability). Near major bus routes for easy base access.

Visit Website