Key facts
- The Army's 1st Corps commander was relieved of duty due to controversies including ordering guard duty without live ammunition.
- The 1st Corps had instructed soldiers to use unloaded K6 heavy machine guns and K4 automatic grenade launchers.
- The commander's actions have raised concerns about military readiness and security posture.
- The 1st Corps was also involved in a recent incident where a U.S. spy drone flew near the inter-Korean border.
- The U.S. military stated prior notice of the drone flight was given, but it was not relayed to higher command.
The Army's 1st Corps commander was relieved of duty on Monday amid a series of controversies, including an order for troops to conduct guard duty without live ammunition loaded and a recent incident involving a U.S. drone near the inter-Korean border. The 1st Corps had instructed soldiers to use unloaded K6 heavy machine guns and K4 automatic grenade launchers, with live ammunition kept nearby. This directive has sparked concerns over lax military readiness and security at front-line units. Lt. Gen. Han Ki-sung, responsible for the western front, has been removed from duty pending an investigation. The Army Ground Operations Command has initiated an inspection of all five corps under its command to assess similar protocols and firearm management. The 1st Corps was also involved in a recent miscommunication incident where a U.S. spy drone flew near the inter-Korean border, nearly leading to its interception by South Korean forces. The South Korean military activated its anti-air defense alert system upon spotting the unmanned aerial vehicle. U.S. Forces Korea asserted that prior notice of the flight was provided, but this information reportedly did not reach higher command.