About this Unit
Yongsan Army Garrison, located in Seoul, South Korea, has served as a major United States military base since shortly after World War II. Originally established as a Japanese military facility during the early 20th century, it was taken over by U.S. forces at the end of Japanese occupation in 1945. Throughout the Korean War and the decades following, Yongsan functioned as the headquarters for United States Forces Korea (USFK), the Eighth Army, and United Nations Command, playing a central role in the defense of the Korean Peninsula. In recent years, most operations and personnel were relocated to Camp Humphreys as part of the Yongsan Relocation Plan, with the garrison’s footprint in Seoul significantly reduced by 2020.
Historical Facts
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Historic Beginnings: Yongsan Garrison's origins trace back to the late 19th century, when it was used by the Imperial Japanese Army following Japan's annexation of Korea in 1910. Prior to that, the area was an important military site even during the Joseon Dynasty.
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Strategic Location: Located in central Seoul, Yongsan has always held strategic importance due to its proximity to the Han River and the heart of the Korean capital.
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World War II and Korean War: After Japan's defeat in World War II, the U.S. Army took over the garrison, making it the headquarters for U.S. forces in Korea during the Korean War.
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Symbol of U.S.-ROK Alliance: For decades, Yongsan Garrison served as the headquarters for United States Forces Korea (USFK), the United Nations Command, and Combined Forces Command, symbolizing the U.S.-ROK military alliance.
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City Within a City: At its peak, Yongsan operated like a small American city, featuring schools, hospitals, fast-food outlets, movie theaters, and even a golf course within its grounds.
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VIP Visitors: The garrison has hosted numerous high-profile visitors, including sitting U.S. presidents, secretaries of defense, and international dignitaries.
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Relocation and Transformation: Starting in the 2000s, most of Yongsan's functions and personnel were relocated to Camp Humphreys as part of a major realignment of U.S. forces. The land is now being transformed into Yongsan Park, an urban green space for Seoul.
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Underground Tunnels: Rumors and some reports suggest the existence of an extensive network of tunnels and bunkers beneath Yongsan Garrison, built for emergency use and as relics of earlier military eras.
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Multinational Community: Yongsan was home to not just Americans and Koreans, but also military personnel and families from other United Nations Command member nations, creating a vibrant international community.
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Cultural Footprint: Over the decades, Yongsan influenced local culture, with nearby Itaewon developing into a cosmopolitan district known for its international dining, shopping, and nightlife, catering to the garrison's diverse population.
