VetFriends Members: 3,064,780

 
JOIN NOW

History of American Forces Korea Network

The American Forces Korea Network (AFKN) was established in 1950 during the Korean War to provide news, information, and entertainment to United States military personnel stationed in South Korea. Originally operated by the U.S. Army, AFKN played a crucial role in maintaining troop morale and delivering command information, broadcasting radio and television programs in English throughout the peninsula. Over the decades, AFKN adapted to changing technologies and missions, eventually rebranding as American Forces Network (AFN) Korea in 2006. Today, AFN Korea continues to serve as a vital link between U.S. forces, their families, and the broader military community in South Korea.

Members

Load More

Gallery

More Unit Photos

ABOUT 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.

Army Best Sellers

Go To Store