Celebrating Unity: KATUSA Friendship Week on Korean Installations

By UOTR Editorial Team and Photos by Ysamar Gómez

Every year, military installations across South Korea come alive with cultural events, friendly competitions, and heartfelt camaraderie during KATUSA Friendship Week. This cherished tradition celebrates the strong bond between the U.S. military and the Korean Augmentation to the United States Army (KATUSA) Soldiers who serve alongside American troops.

What Is KATUSA Friendship Week?

KATUSA Friendship Week is an annual celebration dedicated to strengthening the relationship between U.S. service members and their KATUSA counterparts. Established during the Korean War and formalized by the mutual defense partnership between South Korea and the United States, the KATUSA program is a unique symbol of military cooperation, bringing Korean soldiers directly into U.S. Army units throughout the peninsula.

This week-long event offers a meaningful opportunity to deepen mutual respect, foster cross-cultural friendships, and show appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of KATUSA Soldiers.

Events and Activities Across Installations

Each installation may host a different mix of activities, but many include:

• Opening ceremonies with speeches from command leaders

• Sports competitions like soccer, basketball, e-sports, and tug-of-war

• Korean-American cooking contests and food festivals

• Talent shows featuring music, dance, and comedy

• Cultural exchanges such as hanbok-wearing, Korean calligraphy, and traditional games

• BBQs and friendship banquets where Soldiers and leaders connect in a relaxed setting

These activities aren’t just for fun—they’re about building real relationships that last beyond a single week.

Why KATUSA Friendship Week Matters

While the U.S.–ROK alliance is grounded in treaties and strategy, its success depends on the people who live and work together every day. KATUSA Friendship Week is a reminder that partnership is not just political—it's personal. Shared experiences, laughter, and learning about each other’s traditions help forge bonds that contribute to unit cohesion, mission readiness, and a shared sense of purpose.

It also gives U.S. Soldiers stationed in Korea a chance to engage more deeply with local culture in a respectful and celebratory way, making their time on the peninsula more enriching and memorable.

A Shared Legacy of Service

The KATUSA program remains a unique model of international military integration. Thousands of Korean men voluntarily apply each year for the opportunity to serve as KATUSAs, drawn by the opportunity to work closely with U.S. troops and develop valuable skills and relationships.

Their service bridges language, culture, and national identity—and during KATUSA Friendship Week, that bridge is honored and celebrated.

Want to Get Involved?

If you're stationed in Korea, check with your local MWR or unit leadership for ways to participate in upcoming KATUSA Friendship Week events. Whether you're new to the peninsula or a longtime resident, this is a perfect opportunity to learn, connect, and be part of something that strengthens the alliance from the ground up.

2025 KATUSA Friendship Week Celebrated 75 Years Together

In 2025, KATUSA Friendship Week marked a powerful milestone—75 years of friendship and teamwork between South Korea and the United States. From June 9 to 13, garrisons across the peninsula came together to celebrate the strong bond between KATUSA Soldiers and U.S. service members. Since the program began in 1950, Korean Soldiers have served side-by-side with American troops in every part of the mission, helping bridge language and cultural gaps while strengthening the alliance. What started during the Korean War with thousands of Korean augmentees has grown into a lasting partnership, with about 3,600 KATUSAs currently working alongside the U.S. Army. This year’s anniversary wasn’t just about history—it was about honoring the shared experiences, mutual respect, and unity that continue to define this unique collaboration.

Highlights from 2025 Daegu Area KATUSA Friendship Week

All of our photos are from the 2025 Daegu Area KATUSA Friendship Week.

Want a closer look at the energy and excitement of this year’s celebration? Check out these great highlight videos from AFN Pacific, featuring moments from the 2025 Daegu Area KATUSA Friendship Week. From spirited sports competitions to cultural performances and camaraderie in action, these clips showcase the heart of the U.S.–Korean alliance in motion. Watch the teams in action and hear directly from participants as they share what this week means to them.

Scenes from USAG Humphreys KATUSA Friendship Week 2025

The spirit of teamwork and tradition was on full display at USAG Humphreys during KATUSA Friendship Week 2025. From athletic competitions to shared meals and cultural exchanges, the week brought together KATUSA Soldiers and U.S. service members to celebrate 75 years of partnership. These videos from AFN Pacific capture the laughter, collaboration, and meaningful moments that make this annual event so special at the Army’s largest overseas installation.

For an in-depth look at how U.S. and ROK Soldiers came together to celebrate 75 years of friendship and camaraderie, read the full article here:

https://www.army.mil/article/286283/us_and_rok_soldiers_celebrate_75_years_of_friendship_and_camaraderie

*The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.