Each year, thousands of U.S. and United Nations Command troops stationed in Korea are invited to leave the base and enjoy the journey that brings history, culture, and purpose into focus. The ROK Cultural Immersion Program, sponsored by ROK-U.S. Combined Forces Command, is more than a free tour. It’s a bridge between two nations built on an enduring partnership.

Since its launch in 2020, the program has annually guided service members and their families through Korea’s diverse regions. Every spring and fall, multiple sessions run simultaneously across Seoul-DMZ, Gangwondo, Jeollado and Gyeongsangdo. A special Jeju Island tour is also held separately in September. Participants are grouped by region and sent on three-day, two-night tours where transportation, lodging, meals, admissions and activities are fully covered.

While the destinations may vary depending on a group, the purpose remains the same: to help service members gain a deeper understanding of Korea’s history, culture and security perspective. Beyond just sightseeing, it’s truly educational, meaningful and motivational. It gives clear perspective on why your role in Korea matters.

In past years, I joined the regional tours to Jeollado and Gyeongsangdo and they were filled with unforgettable learning and connection. This spring, I joined the Seoul-DMZ session. Unlike other regional tours that included many families with children, the Seoul itinerary felt especially suitable for single service members. The tour offered a perfect taste of Seoul, ideal for independent explorers and younger troops. Even if you join the tour on your own, it’s a great chance to meet new friends along the way!

THINGS TO KNOW

The trips are sponsored by ROK-US Combined Forces Command as part of the ROK-U.S. Alliance Strengthening Project and all expenses including transportation, hotels, meals, and activities are covered for eligible participants. The program is conducted with the official approval of US Forces Korea and recruitment of participants is overseen by USFK J1. You will likely be notified by your unit about the opportunity to participate in the tour, but you can contact USFK JI via email.

• Participants: Must be U.S troops, UNC troops or GS employees working in Korea and their dependent family members. You’re allowed to bring all your dependents.

• Duration: 2 nights, 3 days (Tuesday to Thursday).

• Sessions: 9 sessions per year (4 sessions in spring, 3 sessions in fall, and two Jeju Island sessions in September).

• Locations: Seoul-DMZ, East Coast-Seorak Mountain, Jeonju-Yeosu, Gyeongju-Busan and Jeju Island.

• Contact: As spots are limited, contact your leadership to reserve yours or inquire via email at: indopacom.humphreys.usfk.list.usfk-cultural-immersion-program@army.mil

• For more details: Cultural Immersion Program 

THREE-DAY JOURNEY

KOREA’S SOUL: SEOUL

As Korea’s capital, Seoul is the perfect starting point especially for newcomers eager to explore the country. The city has served as the capital since 1394 through the Joseon Dynasty, Japanese occupation and today’s Republic of Korea. The name “Seoul” means “capital” in native Korean.

The city beautifully blends historical landmarks such as the Five Royal Palaces, Jongmyo Shrine and Namdaemun Traditional Market with modern icons like N Seoul Tower, Han River parks, COEX and Lotte World Tower.

Though Seoul only covers 0.6% of the country’s land, the city is home to about 9.3 million residents, nearly 18% of Korea’s population. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the city’s dynamic atmosphere through crowded streets, busy subway stations and endless energy!

DESTINATIONS

N Seoul Tower

Located at the top of Namsan Mountain, N Seoul Tower offers one of the best views in Seoul. Participants enjoyed a cable car to reach the top where they took in breathtaking views of the city, a mix of mountains, rivers and endless high-rise buildings.

Han River E-Land Cruise

The Han River Cruise felt like a small break from the busy city. As the boat moved slowly past bridges and buildings, participants spotted major landmarks like the 63 Building, the National Assembly Building and N Seoul Tower in the distance. The view of Seoul from the water felt peaceful and refreshing — very different from the streets and subways.

Myeongdong Street & Namdaemun Market

Participants stayed near Myeongdong Street and Namdaemun Traditional Market, two of the most energetic areas in the city. During free time, many went out for street food, shopping or simply to explore the area with friends. These places are loud, colorful and full of life. For those new to Korea, it was a fun introduction to Seoul’s nightlife and local culture.

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Gyeongbokgung Palace is where Joseon kings once lived and it’s the most iconic of the Five Royal Palaces in Seoul. Wearing hanbok like Joseon noble or royal members, participants walked through the courtyards and under the palace gates, guided by stories from Korea’s royal past.

National Museum of Korea

This was a quiet but powerful stop. As Korea’s most prestigious national museum, it houses countless relics from thousands of years ago. Inside the museum, the group saw everything from ancient pottery to Buddhist statues, each piece telling a chapter of Korea’s long history.

War Memorial of Korea

This memorial always leaves an impression. The group walked through displays of the Korean War and paused by the memorial walls engraved with names fallen during the war. For service members, it’s not just history, it’s personal. The experience reminded us of why the alliance exists and its cost.

DMZ Peace Park & Dora Observatory

On the last day, the group traveled north toward one of the most complex places on earth, the Demilitarized Zone of the two Koreas, also known as the DMZ. Inside the Dora Observatory building, they looked across the border into North Korea while a ROK military police officer explained the significance of the area. From the top of the observatory, visitors can usually spot Kim il-sung’s statue and North Korean troops in the distance. However, during our visit, entering the observatory was restricted due to current tensions. DMZ tours are never fully guaranteed as the conditions depend on the relationship between the two countries. Though the area may seem calm, the tension is there. It’s a place that makes you think about war, peace and what still remains unfinished.

BECOMING ROYALTY AT GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE

In Seoul, timeless heritage and modern skyscrapers share the same skyline. It’s a city where history isn’t just remembered—you live and breathe with it. Turn a corner, and you might suddenly slip into a different century. If you’ve ever dreamed of time traveling, start your journey in Jongno, the royal heart of the capital.

As part of the ROK Cultural Immersion Program, U.S. service members explored Gyeongbokgung Palace, once home to the royal family. As a Seoul native, I’ve been to the palace many times. However, seeing it through the eyes of those visiting for the first time reminded me just how powerful and alive this place truly is. They walked through a moment in time, not just as visitors, but as time travelers dressed in hanbok, connecting with Korea’s past and royal culture.

Jongno: The royal heart of Seoul

Before stepping into Gyeongbokgung, it’s worth pausing to understand the neighborhood that surrounds it. Jongno used to be the area where kings reigned, and noble families lived for centuries. Even now, it preserves tangible pieces of the Joseon Dynasty: the Five Royal Palaces, Jongmyo Shrine and hanok villages like Bukchon and Seochon. It’s framed by historic gates like Sungnyemun (South Gate) and Heunginjimun (East Gate), surrounded by traditional markets. It’s the place where past and present breathe together.

GYEONGBOKGUNG PALACE

At the center of all it, Gyeongbokgung Palace stands as the largest, most symbolic of Korea’s palaces. Its name means “palace greatly blessed by heaven.” The complex, designed according to geomantic principles, sits on a site with Mt. Bugaksan as a backdrop and facing Cheonggyecheon Stream, is believed to bring blessings. Due to this belief, Cheongwadae, known as the Blue House and the residential building for the Korean president, was constructed nearby.

But behind its beauty lies history of pain. The palace was burned during the Japanese invasions of 1592 and left in ruins for over 270 years before King Gojong led the restoration. In 1895, Empress Myeongseong was murdered here by Japanese mercenaries, a tragedy remembered as the Eulmi Incident. Later, during the occupation, the Japanese built the massive Government-General Building directly in front of the palace, blocking its view and spirit. The palace was damaged again during the Korean War.

It wasn’t until the 1990s that full-scale restoration began. Today, though Korea no longer has a monarchy, Gyeongbokgung remains a profound symbol of national pride and a living monument to resilience.

• Location: Near Line 3, Gyeongbokgung Station Exit 5, Naver Map

• Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. (Closed Tuesdays)

• Ticket: 3,000 won

• Free entry for: Visitors dressed in hanbok / Koreans under 24 or over 65 / Foreigners under 19 or over 65

GYEONGBOKGUNG: GET IN STYLE BY WEARING TRADITIONAL KOREAN CLOTHING

WEARING HANBOK

For many participants, wearing a hanbok was a first and unforgettable experience. Hanbok is traditional Korean clothing, and Koreans still wear it today for special occasions like weddings or major national holidays.

Renting hanbok has become a beloved tourist activity at historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace. Though rental shops offer modernized hanbok with dazzling patterns and updated designs, they still carry a timeless beauty that will make anyone feel like royalty.

At the hanbok shop, participants lit up as they browsed rows of stunning garments. Some became noble scholars, others transformed into brave warriors or graceful princesses. Walking through the palace dressed in attire from the Joseon era, many felt they were inside of a historical scene.

“The hanbok experience was amazing. I felt connected to the culture, especially walking through the palace. Seeing the history and beauty of Korea was eye-opening!” said Army PFC Henry.

Rental shops are easy to find around Gyeongbokgung Station. Prices are budget friendly. Best of all, entry to Gyeongbokgung is free when wearing hanbok!

• Location: Near Line 3. Gyeongbokgung Station Exit 1~4

• Hours: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Closed on Tuesdays / Most shops follow the palace’s operating hours)

• Prices: 10,000 won -14,000 won for 90 minutes / 20,000 – 35,000 won for a full day (until the shop closing time)

GWANGHWAMUN GATE

Gwanghwamun Gate is the main gate of the palace, meaning “The King’s great virtue shines upon the nation.” In front of the gate lies Gwanghwamun Square, a major cultural hub and gathering place for national events or rallies.

This square also honors Korea’s most beloved heroes: King Sejong the Great, the creator of Hangul and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, the naval commander who defended Korea against Japanese invasion. Their statues proudly rise against the backdrop of the palace, standing as powerful symbol of Korea’s legacy.

Admission begins at the next gate, Heungnyemun, so entry through Gwanghwamun Gate is open to all visitors and it’s the perfect place to enjoy the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony.

PALACE ROYAL GUARD CHANGING CEREMONY

Twice a day, the historical scenes of the palace come alive with drums beats and performances of the Changing of the Guard Ceremony. About 70 guards and 15 royal military band members take part in this 20-minute reenactment, reflecting the Joseon military customs.

Much like the guards at Buckingham Palace, Korea’s royal gate guards, called sumungun, were elite military officials tasked with protecting the palace. Though today’s guards are actors, the ceremony is faithfully recreated daily. Visitors may also catch a Dispatch Ceremony and public training sessions at different times throughout the day.

After the ceremony, guards remain at their posts at Gwanghwamun Gate and visitors are welcome to take photos with them. The events are held daily except Tuesdays, and no admission ticket is required. Please note that schedules may change depending on the weather.

Schedule:

• Change Ceremony (main event): 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. (20 min)

• Dispatch Ceremony: 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. (10 min)

• Public training: 9:35 a.m. & 1:35 p.m. (15 min at Hyeopseongmun Gate)

GEUNJEONGJEON HALL

As soon as participants stepped through Geunjeongmun Gate, many paused for photos. Geunjeongjeon Hall, meaning “hall of diligent governance,” is the most important and impressive building in the palace. This was where the king sat on his throne to host official ceremonies like royal coronations, New Year’s greetings with court officials, receptions for foreign envoys and other major events. It was the center of royal power, a place where the future of the nation was once decided.

Things to notice in palace design

• Dancheong: Look closely at the colorful patterns on the wooden buildings. The traditional designs are painted in five elemental colors (blue-green, red, yellow, white, black) but they aren’t just beautiful and decorative. The designs also symbolize spiritual protection, harmony with nature and the status of the structure.

• Japsang: You’ll spot small animal figurines lined up on the rooftops. These tiny guardians were placed there to ward off evil spirits and signify the importance of the building beneath them.

GYEONGHOERU PAVILION

One of the most romantic and scenic spots in Gyeongbokgung, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion is beloved by all visitors for capturing beautiful photographs. Its name means “pavilion of joyous gathering,” and it gracefully sits on an artificial pond on the western side of the palace. In the Joseon era, this was where kings hosted grand banquets and entertained foreign envoys.

MUSEUMS INSIDE THE PALACE

There are two museums within Gyeongbokgung that are truly worth your time. Since the palace grounds are vast, it’s not always easy to see everything in one visit and sometimes the museums get missed. But if you can set aside a full day, I highly recommend including them in your visit. Both are beautifully designed and filled with exhibits that bring Korea’s history to life. Even better, admission is free.

National Palace Museum of Korea: Explore the science, art, and everyday life of the Joseon royalty

• Location: Near Line 3. Gyeongbokgung Station Exit 5, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Mon., Tue., Thurs., Fri., Sun.) / 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Wed.&Sat.)

National Folk Museum of Korea: Visitors can learn about the daily lives of ordinary Koreans from the past.

• Location: Near Line 3. Anguk Station Exit 1, Naver Map

• Hours: March–Oct.: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Sun.–Fri.), 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Sat.) / Nov.–Feb.: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. / Closed New Year’s Day, Seollal, and Chuseok

U.S. TROOPS CONNECT WITH KOREA THROUGH HISTORY, ART AND WAR

For many stationed in South Korea, weekends often mean a trip to a new café, a scenic train ride to Busan or a peaceful mountain hike. But amid all the adventures, there comes a moment when you crave more than just food and photos—something that draws you closer to the reason you’re here.

For some U.S. troops who joined the ROK Cultural Immersion Program this spring, that moment arrived within the quiet halls of two world class museums in Yongsan, Seoul.

Less than 10 minutes apart by car, the National Museum of Korea and the War Memorial of Korea offer something rare when visited together: a comprehensive picture of Korea’s identity and spirit. One tells the story of faith, art and identity and the other tells the story of loss, sacrifice and survival. Together, they help you see your host country with deeper understanding.

Both museums offer free admission, making these experiences not only meaningful but also accessible. If you haven’t yet, clear a day on your calendar to explore them together. You’ll walk away with more than just souvenirs and snapshots. You’ll leave with perspective and meaning.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF KOREA: A NATIONAL TREASURE HOUSE

The National Museum of Korea is the country’s largest and most prestigious museum. Visitors can appreciate Korea’s cultural and spiritual history through priceless artifacts like prehistoric stone tools, royal calligraphy and Buddhist sculptures.

The museum traces Korea’s evolution in art, religion and philosophy spanning ancient kingdoms to early modern Korea. Many of the items here are officially designated National Treasures, some dating back thousands of years.

Each exhibition hall is thoughtfully designed with elegant layouts with subtle lighting that enhances the beauty of each relic. For many service members during the spring visit, the museum offered a new glimpse into Korea’s spiritual and artistic roots. One participant stood quietly in front of a serene Buddha statue where soft light touched its timeless expression. Anyone who paused there seemed drawn into tranquility as if they could’ve stared at it for hours. More than a work of art, this piece of history felt sacred.

The quiet atmosphere gave many troops a chance to reflect. Some marveled at how Korea, surrounded by powerful neighbors throughout history, has preserved such a strong and distinct cultural identity. From the golden crowns of the Silla Kingdom to Goryeo Celadon, every corner left visitors deeply impressed by Korea’s heritage and resilience.

Also, don’t forget to visit the museum shop, widely known as one of the best in Korea. You’ll find creative souvenirs inspired by the museum’s national treasures, perfect for taking home a meaningful memory.

• Address: 137 Seobinggo-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul or Line 4 & Gyeongui Jungang Line. Ichon Station Exit 2, Naver Map

• Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Sun.-Tue. & Thurs.-Fri.) / 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Wed. & Sat.) / Outdoor exhibition area: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.

• Admission: Free (Only special exhibitions require an entry fee)

• Parking: Free for the first 20 minutes, then 2,000 won for the next 2 hours, and 500 won for every additional 30 minutes. (The parking lot is very spacious, but please note that there may be some waiting time for parking during peak hours on weekends.)

• Website

WAR MEMORIAL OF KOREA: A LEGACY OF COURAGE AND SACRIFICE

Just a short ride away from the National Museum of Korea, the tone completely shifts. At the War Memorial of Korea, participants walked slowly past the memorial walls engraved with the names of those who never made it home.

“I didn’t know there were so many troops sent from my home state,” said one service member quietly. While 36,940 U.S. troops were killed during the Korean War, the museum made that number feel personal. More than 2,600 were from California, over 2,400 from Pennsylvania and thousands more from states like Texas, New York, Illinois and Hawaii. Seeing every single name carved under their home states made many realize these weren’t just statistics in a history book. They were real lives. Most of those were young conscripts, drafted into a war across the world to a country they knew little of. Yet they gave their lives to defend freedom.

The museum also honors the 22 countries that fought under the United Nations flag, 16 sent combat troops and 6 provided medical or humanitarian support. A total 1.95 million U.N. troops were deployed, including 1,789,000 Americans.

For some U.S. service members walking through those halls, the weight of that sacrifice became personal. Senior Airman Jordan was especially moved.

“My great-grandfather fought in the Korean War and received a Purple Heart. He didn’t talk much about it, but I know it was traumatic. He lost too many of his friends,” Jordan said. “My grandfather also served at Camp Humphreys, so I’m the third generation here. Being in today’s Korea, knowing my family history, it’s emotional. I think they’d be proud of me.”

The museum’s exhibits including battlefield artifacts, full-scale aircraft and tanks guided visitors through Korea’s military history from ancient warriors to today’s ROK Armed Forces. But where the museum resonates deeply is in the powerful portrayal of the Korean War.

The Korean War zones capture the key moment of the conflict through historical records and highlight the bond between ROK and U.S. forces. What stayed with many participants wasn’t just history, but the reminder of why they serve and the values they’re here to defend.

• Address: 29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul or Line 4 & 6. Samgakji Station Exit 11, Naver Map

• Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Closed on Mondays. If Monday is a holiday, closed on Tuesday instead)

• Admission: Free

• Parking: Free for the first 30 minutes, then 4,000 won for the next 2 hours, and 1,500 won for every additional 30 minutes.

• Website

TWO SIDES OF ONE STORY

What made this visit so powerful was how these two destinations complemented each other, offering different lenses to view Korea’s story.

The National Museum unfolds Korea’s creativity, philosophy, pride and cultural richness. The War Memorial reveals Korea’s pain, struggle, resilience and the cost of freedom. One shows how Korea preserved its identity through art and faith, and the other, how it protected that identity through sacrifice.

Together, they tell one complete story: a nation that endured, evolved and now stands strong as a partner in peace.

After the trip, many participants shared their reflections.

“Koreans are resilient,” said Army Spc. Issiah. “Despite so many invasions, they’ve always risen back up. That’s something I admire.”

Army Spc. McManus said he didn’t learn much about the war in school. “Our classes barely mentioned what happened in the Pacific region,” he said. “Being here made me realize how important our presence still is.”

For U.S. troops, the two museums offered more than history. They offered connection, perspective and purpose.

USAG Yongsan

Camp Casey

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