American Forces Korea Network

• Origins in the Korean War: The American Forces Korea Network (AFKN) was established in 1950 during the Korean War to provide news, entertainment, and information to U.S. troops stationed in Korea. • First Broadcast Location: The first AFKN radio broadcast took place at the Bando Hotel in Seoul, which served as a makeshift studio and headquarters during the early days of the conflict. • Expansion to Television: AFKN launched its television broadcasts in 1957, making it one of the earliest TV stations in South Korea and bringing American TV shows to U.S. military personnel overseas. • Cultural Impact: AFKN unintentionally influenced Korean pop culture, as many local Koreans tuned in to learn English and experience American music, movies, and TV shows. • Call Sign Changes: In 2006, AFKN changed its name to the American Forces Network Korea (AFN Korea) to align with the worldwide AFN branding. • Famous Alumni: AFKN has been a training ground for many broadcasters who later became famous, including Tom Brokaw, who worked at AFKN as a young reporter. • Emergency Information: AFKN/AFN Korea has played a critical role in broadcasting emergency warnings and information during crises, such as typhoons, civil unrest, and military exercises. • Mobile Broadcasting: During the early years, AFKN used mobile radio vans to reach remote outposts and front-line units, ensuring troops across Korea could hear vital information. • Community Connection: The network has long featured community programming, including interviews with service members, coverage of on-base events, and family messages. • Legacy and Longevity: AFKN/AFN Korea is one of the oldest continuously operating military broadcasting services outside the continental United States, serving U.S. forces for over 70 years.