Military Bases in South Korea

South Korea’s Strategic Defense Network

For U.S. military members and families on PCS or TDY to South Korea, Daegu Air Base (K-2), Kunsan Air Base, Osan Air Base, Camp Carroll, Camp Casey, Camp Hovey, Camp Humphreys, Camp Walker, USAG Daegu, and Fleet Activities Chinhae are key installations supporting the U.S.-ROK alliance. These bases drive air defense, ground operations, and naval logistics across the peninsula. This guide to military bases in South Korea offers insights into their roles, historical significance, economic impact, and community support, ensuring a rewarding assignment in this dynamic ally nation.

Historical Foundations

South Korea’s U.S. military presence began during the Korean War (1950–1953). Kunsan Air Base, established in 1950, supported USAF fighter operations against North Korean forces. Osan Air Base, activated in 1951, became a hub for air defense. Daegu Air Base (K-2), co-located with Daegu International Airport, emerged as a logistics node. Camp Humphreys, founded in 1950, grew into the U.S. Army’s largest overseas base. Fort Campbell, established in 1942, was named for Brigadier General William B. Campbell, a Tennessee politician and Civil War hero, and trained airborne units during WWII. Fort Knox, founded in 1918 as Camp Knox, became a permanent post in 1932, named for Major General Henry Knox, and housed the U.S. Bullion Depository by 1937. Both bases expanded during the Cold War, with Fort Campbell becoming the home of the 101st Airborne Division and Fort Knox hosting armor training. These installations have shaped Kentucky’s defense legacy.

Economic Impact

South Korea’s U.S. bases contribute billions annually, employing over 50,000 personnel. Camp Humphreys, spanning 3,454 acres, generates $2 billion and 40,000 jobs in Pyeongtaek, supporting local commerce. USAG Daegu, overseeing Camps Carroll, Walker, Henry, and George, adds $1 billion and 10,000 jobs in Daegu and Waegwan. Osan Air Base contributes $800 million and 8,000 jobs in Pyeongtaek. Kunsan Air Base adds $500 million and 5,000 jobs in Gunsan. Camp Casey and Camp Hovey sustain $600 million and 6,000 jobs in Dongducheon. Fleet Activities Chinhae supports $200 million and 2,000 jobs in Jinhae-gu. Families access 5,000 housing units, DoDEA schools (e.g., Humphreys High School), and TRICARE clinics, with MWR programs like 2025 Seoul cultural tours and Daegu apple festivals.

Key Military Facilities

• Daegu Air Base (K-2, Daegu): Co-located with Daegu International Airport, supports USAF logistics and RJAF operations, with 1,000 personnel.

• Kunsan Air Base (Gunsan): Hosts the 8th Fighter Wing with F-16 Fighting Falcons, conducting 2,000 sorties, with 5,000 personnel.

• Osan Air Base (Pyeongtaek): Home to the 51st Fighter Wing with F-16s and A-10s, operating 3,000 sorties, with 8,000 personnel.

• Camp Carroll (Waegwan): A logistics hub under USAG Daegu, storing munitions, with 4,200 personnel.

• Camp Casey (Dongducheon): Hosts the 2nd Infantry Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team, training 6,000 soldiers, under USAG Yongsan-Casey.

• Camp Hovey (Dongducheon): A complementary base to Camp Casey, training 4,000 soldiers, with 1,000 personnel.

• Camp Humphreys (Pyeongtaek): Headquarters for USFK and 8th Army, hosting 40,000 personnel, including the 2nd Infantry Division.

• Camp Walker (Daegu): Under USAG Daegu, supports family housing and life support, with 5,000 personnel.

• USAG Daegu (Daegu): Oversees Camps Carroll, Walker, Henry, and George, managing 10,000 personnel and Area IV operations.

• Fleet Activities Chinhae (Jinhae-gu): U.S. Navy base supporting logistics and port operations, with 2,000 personnel.

• Camp Henry (Daegu): USAG Daegu headquarters, supporting administrative functions, with 1,500 personnel.

Strategic Importance

South Korea’s U.S. bases are critical to the U.S.-ROK alliance and regional stability. Osan Air Base’s 51st Fighter Wing conducts 3,000 F-16 and A-10 sorties annually, with a 2024 “super squadron” of 31 additional F-16s enhancing deterrence against North Korea. Kunsan Air Base’s 8th Fighter Wing supports 2,000 F-16 missions, with potential 2025 F-35A deployments under review. Daegu Air Base (K-2) facilitates logistics for USAF and RJAF operations. Camp Humphreys, the largest U.S. overseas base, houses USFK and 8th Army, coordinating 40,000 personnel. Camp Casey and Camp Hovey train 10,000 2nd Infantry Division soldiers for rapid response. Camp Carroll stores 20% of Army munitions. USAG Daegu manages Area IV logistics, while Fleet Activities Chinhae supports naval operations. These bases ensure readiness despite unconfirmed 2024 drone reports.

Notable Distinctions

Camp Humphreys, at 3,454 acres, is the largest U.S. overseas military base, hosting USFK headquarters. Osan Air Base is a premier air defense hub with dual USAF-ROKAF operations. Kunsan Air Base is one of two USAF bases in South Korea, known for its “Wolf Pack” F-16s. USAG Daegu oversees the largest U.S. Army footprint in Korea. The bases offer 5,000 housing units, DoDEA schools, and MWR events like Pyeongtaek’s 2025 K-pop festivals and Daegu’s cultural exchanges, fostering vibrant communities in South Korea’s urban and coastal regions.

U.S. service members on PCS to South Korea or TDY in South Korea will find mission-critical roles and dynamic communities at Daegu, Kunsan, Osan, Carroll, Casey, Hovey, Humphreys, Walker, and Chinhae. From Seoul’s cultural vibrancy to Busan’s coastal charm, South Korea’s bases provide robust support, quality education, and unforgettable experiences for military families.