Key facts
- The Army's 1st Corps commander has been relieved of duty.
- The commander issued a directive for soldiers to use unloaded weapons during guard operations.
- The unit was instructed to use unloaded K6 heavy machine guns and K4 automatic grenade launchers.
- Live ammunition was kept next to the firearms.
- The incident has sparked concerns about military readiness and security.
The defense ministry of South Korea announced on Monday that the commander of the Army's 1st Corps has been relieved of duty. This action stems from an order that directed a front-line unit to conduct guard operations with unloaded firearms. The 1st Corps was found to have instructed soldiers to use unloaded K6 heavy machine guns and K4 automatic grenade launchers while on guard duty, with live ammunition stored separately next to the weapons.
The directive has ignited concerns regarding lax military readiness and the overall security posture of units stationed on the front lines. In a statement to the press, the ministry confirmed that the commander, responsible for the western front, was removed from duty effective Monday as an investigation into the matter proceeds.