The Welcome Wagon of Korea: Hospitality on the PCS Front Lines
- Kelly Karwel
- May 26
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 26
As a mother, homeschool teacher, and Army spouse, I quickly realized the challenges of a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to South Korea. My family and I arrived here almost two years ago, and I remembered the comfort I witnessed with the “Welcome Wagon” program I started during a previous assignment in Grafenwohr, Germany. Through this program, soldiers and their families saw firsthand how a small gesture of kindness – a snack, a friendly face – can make a world of difference to those feeling tired, hungry, and out of place.
I knew I wanted to bring that same comfort to Camp Humphreys. First, I reached out to other organizations about starting a mission to provide incoming service members and their families with snacks, but many attempts fell through. Determined to make a difference, I began working with Eighth Army G1, 19th Human Resources Command, and USAG Humphreys Garrison Command to set up a volunteer initiative that I believed would provide a much-needed service for our Army community.
The result was the establishment of the “Welcome Wagon of Korea.”
Back in Germany, our Welcome Wagon was smaller in scale, but I witnessed the benefits and impact just the same. I understand the arduous 24-hour journey and transit wait times that 90% of soldiers (and dependents) experience as they arrive through Osan Airbase and Incheon Airport while they in-process through Camp Humphreys. It impacts morale, and I wanted to do something about it
Getting Started
The Welcome Wagon of Korea has been operating since July 2024 and officially became a private organization in September 2024 at USAG Humphreys. Unofficially, however, I started planning the day we arrived in July 2023, seeking out how to make this happen. It took a year to find the right support to finally get it up and running. Since then, we’ve welcomed approximately 5,840 service members and their families, including some pets too! Our organization has said hellos and goodbyes to reception soldiers that we’ve become close to, building relationships with both those arriving and those who help them.
The Welcome Wagon of Korea strives to ensure that even during a PCS move, traditions aren't lost. We host seasonal events, including trick-or-treating for Halloween, Thanksgiving cookie deliveries with 3rd grade classroom letters, Christmas gift bags, Valentine’s Day treats, St. Patrick’s Day fun, and Easter egg hunts – ensuring that families can still celebrate the holidays while adjusting to their new home.
The Call To Action
We are incredibly grateful for the support we receive, particularly from the Korea Defense Veterans Association (KDVA), which has committed to a five-year partnership. They allow us to meet our goals of providing welcome bags and outreach items. While we gratefully accept donations of snacks and toiletries, our greatest need right now is for volunteers.
Anyone can volunteer – soldiers looking for a rewarding opportunity, spouses wanting to make a difference, civilians, and retirees. Even an hour of your time can have a significant impact. We ask that you greet at least one bus a month to stay active within our volunteer program. Do you have at least one hour to spare a month? Please consider joining our team!
Future Plans
The Welcome Wagon of Korea plans to stay around for years to come. We are asking the community to step up and spread the word about this organization that brings a friendly smile, a warm welcome, and gives the first positive impression to those coming on a long journey to South Korea.
You can make a real difference by welcoming new community members to Camp Humphreys. Whether it’s a warm smile, helpful info, or simply being there, your time can ease transitions and build lasting connections.
Want to learn more or get involved? Email w.w.ofkorea@gmail.com and join our volunteer community on Facebook at Camp Humphreys Welcome Wagon of Korea. Also, check out the Welcome Wagon of Korea website!
Together, we can make every arrival feel like a homecoming.
Learn More About the Welcome Wagon of Korea
The Welcome Wagon of Korea (WWoK) continues to gain recognition for its heartfelt mission to support newly arrived U.S. military service members and families in South Korea. To dive deeper into the impact of this volunteer-driven organization, explore these related articles from trusted sources:
Welcome Wagon of Korea: Leadership Change in 2025 – Discover how WWoK is evolving under new leadership and continuing its commitment to easing the PCS transition for incoming military families.
KDVA and Welcome Wagon of Korea Support USFK – KDVA Learn how collaboration between the Korea Defense Veterans Association and WWoK strengthens support for the U.S. Forces Korea community.
Camp Humphreys Welcome Wagon Greets Troops with Smiles and Snacks – Stars and Stripes A feature on how WWoK volunteers meet new arrivals with compassion, connection, and care—right from the tarmac.
Volunteer Spotlight: WWoK at Camp Humphreys – Stripes Korea Community News See how everyday volunteers are making a meaningful difference in the lives of military families arriving in Korea.
Whether you’re a military spouse, service member, or community supporter, these stories highlight the essential role WWoK plays in easing the transition to life in Korea.
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