In celebration of KATUSA Friendship Week, we highlight the story of SGT Kim, Jinseo, a dedicated KATUSA soldier who has served with the Far East District for the past 15 months.
Currently assigned to the USDCA/Project and Program Management Division (PPMD), Kim supports a wide range of administrative and project coordination tasks. A sophomore history major from Sogang University in Korea, Kim has found the KATUSA experience to be both eye-opening and transformative.
“Before joining,” he recalls, “I didn’t fully understand what being a KATUSA meant. But working and living alongside U.S. personnel has been an invaluable and rare experience. I’ve learned so much—not just about military operations, but also about culture, communication, and teamwork.”
Despite language barriers and the challenges of adapting to an English-speaking environment, Kim sees his time at FED as a period of growth. “It wasn’t always easy,” he shares, “but through those difficulties, I’ve realized the importance of perseverance and continuous learning.”
One of his most meaningful moments was participating in a community outreach program with other KATUSAs, where they volunteered to teach local students. “It reminded me that being a KATUSA isn’t just about supporting the mission—it’s also about giving back to the community.”
Looking ahead, Kim plans to pursue a career in public service after his discharge, hoping to serve his country as a civil servant. His advice to future KATUSAs: “Approach this opportunity with responsibility and pride. We represent Korea and must serve not just as soldiers, but as cultural ambassadors.”
As his time at FED nears its end, Kim reflects with gratitude. “I’m thankful for everyone who supported me here. Serving at FED has been an honor, and I’ll always carry these experiences with me.”
| Date Taken: | 06.08.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.13.2025 02:22 |
| Photo ID: | 9108453 |
| VIRIN: | 250609-A-EH971-1302 |
| Resolution: | 6720x4480 |
| Size: | 9.28 MB |
| Location: | PYEONGTAEK, GYEONGGIDO [KYONGGI-DO], KR |
| Web Views: | 16 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, KATUSA Friendship Week: SGT Kim, Jinseo Reflects on His KATUSA Experience, by YOHAN AN, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
