Army Bases South Korea

K-16 Air Base

K-16 Air Base PCS Guide

K-16 Air Base sits near Songnam, Korea, South, and serves as a key hub for U.S. Army aviation operations. The base is known for helicopter units supporting the Eighth Army and United Nations Command, with on-base housing and amenities limited due to its compact size. Families rely on nearby Seoul for schools and off-base living options. K-16 is recognized for its strategic location and high operational tempo.
Songnam, Korea, South
Established
July 1, 1950
Primary Mission
Army aviation support and rotary-wing operations
Population
Approximately 1,200 personnel
Nearest Major City
Seoul
Home to
2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, Eighth Army
On-Base Amenities
Limited; most services accessed in Seoul

Military Base History

ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (April 16, 2025) – An MH-60S Seahawk assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 lands near the 36th Wing headquarters at Andersen Air Force Base, April 16. The flight supported a congressional delegation visit as part of ongoing efforts to assess defense...

K-16 Air Base, also known as Seoul Air Base, is a key U.S. Army installation near Seoul, South Korea. The base was built during the Korean War in the early 1950s to support United Nations Command air operations.

Its strategic location enabled rapid deployment of aircraft and personnel, making it vital for air mobility and logistics in the region.

Throughout the Cold War, K-16 Air Base served as a hub for rotary-wing aviation and supported both U.S. and Republic of Korea (ROK) forces.

The base underwent several expansions to accommodate new helicopter units and improved infrastructure, reflecting its growing importance in joint U.S.-ROK defense efforts.

Significant aviation units have called K-16 home, including elements of the 2nd Infantry Division and the 17th Aviation Brigade.

The base has played a continuous role in supporting command, control, and rapid response missions, especially during periods of heightened tension on the Korean Peninsula.

Today, K-16 Air Base remains a critical asset for U.S. Army aviation in Korea. It supports helicopter operations, VIP transport, and joint training exercises, reinforcing the U.S.-ROK alliance.

The base is commonly referred to as "K-16" or "Seoul Air Base", but there have been no significant official name changes since its establishment.

Major Units & Training Programs

An Alaska Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook assigned to the 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment, participates in joint sling-load operations with U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 3rd Munitions Squadron at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, Sept. 16, 2024. This was the first time munitions...

Major Units

2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division

Provides aviation support, including air assault, reconnaissance, and logistical operations to U.S. Army ground forces stationed in Korea. The brigade enhances the operational reach and flexibility of ground units.

3rd General Support Aviation Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division

Delivers general support aviation capabilities such as heavy lift, medical evacuation, and command and control to ground operations throughout the Korean Peninsula.

Arrival & In-Processing

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. – Staff Sgt. Brandon Mitchell, right, 78th Security Forces Squadron Military Working Dog kennel master, discusses dog handling tactics and techniques with Sgt. Casey Mullins, Warner Robins Police Department Proactive Crime Enforcement K-9 Unit training supervisor, at...

Welcome to K-16 Air Base! Arriving at a new installation is a big step, and being prepared will help your check-in go smoothly. Review these steps to ensure you have everything needed for a successful start. For more details, visit the official K-16 Air Base website.

PCS & Relocation Essentials

Sgt. 1st Class Kyle Stewart, a U.S. Army Reserve Soldier and one of the first Soldiers to conduct a Permanent Change of Station, known as PCS, to Poland, stands inside his apartment shortly after moving in as a tenant, Poznan, Poland, Feb. 7, 2023.

Arriving at K-16 Air Base starts with receiving your official orders. Once you have orders, contact the Base Transportation Office to begin planning your move. Most service members use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule and track their Household Goods (HHG) shipment or to arrange a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). DPS is your main hub for managing move details, so register and start early.

You can choose between a government-arranged HHG shipment or a PPM, where you move your belongings and may qualify for reimbursement. Review your entitlements, including Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for hotel stays during transition and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving costs. Make sure to keep all receipts and documents for reimbursement.

K-16 Air Base has unique in-processing steps and may have base-specific requirements for newcomers. Reach out to your sponsor and check the base website for arrival instructions. Early communication helps avoid delays and ensures a smooth transition.

Temporary Lodging Information

Up to 10 days

Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance

Local Transportation Office
Contact the Base Transportation Office at (XXX) XXX-XXXX or see Base Directory.

PCS Tips

  • Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
  • Keep all important documents and orders with you, not in shipped luggage.
  • Inventory and photograph valuables before packing.
  • Understand your weight allowances to avoid excess costs.
  • Label boxes with your name and new address for easier delivery.
  • Book temporary lodging early—on-base options fill quickly.
  • Contact the Base Transportation Office if you have special items or pets.

Important Forms & Links

DPS Login (move.mil)

Access the Defense Personal Property System to schedule and manage your move.

DoD Allowances & Rates (PDTATAC)

Find current rates for TLE, DLA, and other PCS entitlements.

Military OneSource PCS Resources

Get PCS checklists, planning tools, and expert support.

DLA Calculator

Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.

Housing Options

BAH Rates (2025)

BAH Rate MHA code mapping not found for K-16 Air Base.

On-Base Neighborhoods

K-16 Family Housing

K-16 Family Housing offers a small number of apartment-style homes for command-sponsored families. Units are modern but limited, with priority given to families with young children. Amenities include a playground and small community area. Waitlists are common due to high demand and few units.

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Unaccompanied Housing (UH)

Unaccompanied Housing (UH) at K-16 provides dormitory-style rooms for junior enlisted members. Each room is furnished and includes basic amenities. Space is limited; many personnel may be required to live off-base in local apartments if capacity is reached.

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Off-Base Areas

Bundang-gu (Seongnam)

10-20 minutes ₩1,200,000–₩2,500,000/month (about $900–$1,900 USD) for a 3-bedroom apartment

Bundang-gu is a modern, family-friendly district with top schools, parks, and shopping. Many expats and military families choose Bundang for its comforts and convenient commute to K-16. Expect high-rise apartments and vibrant amenities. Rent is higher but worth it for quality of life.

Jungwon-gu (Seongnam)

15-25 minutes ₩900,000–₩2,000,000/month (about $700–$1,500 USD) for a 2-3 bedroom apartment

Jungwon-gu offers a quieter, more residential vibe with local markets and easy transit. Apartments are more affordable than Bundang, and the area appeals to those seeking a slower pace. Commute is reasonable and neighborhoods are safe for families.

Gangnam-gu (Seoul)

30-50 minutes ₩2,000,000–₩4,000,000/month (about $1,500–$3,000 USD) for a 3-bedroom apartment

Gangnam is a lively Seoul district known for shopping, nightlife, and international dining. Popular with singles and couples, it offers luxury apartments and a fast-paced lifestyle. Commute is longer, but the excitement and services are unmatched.

Pangyo Techno Valley (Seongnam)

20-30 minutes ₩1,500,000–₩3,000,000/month (about $1,100–$2,200 USD) for a 2-3 bedroom apartment

Pangyo is a tech hub with new apartments, international supermarkets, and green spaces. It's ideal for those wanting modern conveniences and proximity to global businesses. Rents are mid-to-high, but the area is clean and highly walkable.

Lodging Options

Finding temporary lodging at K-16 Air Base is essential for a smooth PCS or TDY transition. On-base accommodations fill quickly, especially during peak PCS months, so book as early as possible. TLFs often prioritize incoming and outgoing personnel, but space is limited. Typical stays range from 30 to 60 days, depending on mission needs and availability. Pet-friendly rooms are limited, so request these early if traveling with pets. Some facilities require health records and charge additional fees for pets.

On-Base Lodging

K-16 Air Base Lodging Facility

The main K-16 Lodging Facility offers standard rooms and suites for eligible military members and families. Rooms include private baths, Wi-Fi, and cable TV. Select suites feature kitchenettes for longer stays. Pet-friendly rooms are available in limited numbers; request when booking and provide vaccination records. Amenities include laundry, fitness access, and 24-hour front desk support.

Contact: +82-2-7913-5701 or DSN 315-7913-5701

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K-16 Temporary Lodging Facility (TLF)

K-16 TLF units are designed for families on PCS orders. Each unit features a kitchenette, living area, and basic kitchenware. TLFs prioritize inbound and outbound personnel. Limited pet rooms are available; early booking is critical. Amenities include playgrounds, laundry, and Wi-Fi.

Contact: +82-2-7913-5701 or DSN 315-7913-5701

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Nearby Off-Base Hotels

Grand Hyatt Incheon

25 miles / 45 min drive
Offers military discounts with valid ID. Pet-friendly rooms available for a fee. Complimentary airport shuttle and breakfast options. Located near Incheon International Airport, convenient for arrivals and departures.
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Lotte City Hotel Guro

13 miles / 30 min drive
Military rates available upon request. Modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, and on-site dining. Pet policy: No pets allowed. Close to shopping and dining in Guro District.
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Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Botanic Park

20 miles / 40 min drive
Known for accommodating PCSing families. Military discounts may apply. Pet-friendly for small dogs (fee applies). Free breakfast for some rates. Near subway for easy Seoul access.
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