New Zealand Army soldiers have completed large-scale military training alongside the Republic of Korea Marine Corps during a major joint exercise near Pohang in South Korea.
The deployment marks the first time New Zealand soldiers have been attached to a South Korean Marine landing battalion in support of maritime operations, strengthening defence ties between the two countries and reinforcing New Zealand’s long-standing commitment to peace on the Korean Peninsula.
The exercise involved around 3,200 personnel from South Korea’s Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps and culminated in a large amphibious landing operation at Doksok-ri Beach.
Combined forces carried out simulated assault landings using high-speed landing craft and Korean Amphibious Assault Vehicles before moving inland to secure coastal objectives under mock naval gunfire and air support.
The training forms part of New Zealand’s current three-month deployment to South Korea, which began in March with the deployment of a 33-member infantry platoon and a small contingent headquarters team.
New Zealand troops trained alongside South Korean and United States forces across a range of environments including urban combat, amphibious operations and close-country warfare.
Captain Matt Peri, who leads the New Zealand platoon, says Kiwi soldiers participated in urban operations, live-fire exercises, landing rehearsals and amphibious vehicle procedures while integrating into combined planning and command activities.
The exercise also featured significant naval and air assets, including the South Korean amphibious assault ship ROKS Marado, fighter jets, maritime patrol aircraft, attack helicopters and unmanned aerial systems.
The deployment continues New Zealand’s long-standing involvement on the Korean Peninsula through the United Nations Command, building on the legacy of New Zealand’s “K-Force” contribution during the Korean War.
New Zealand Defence Force personnel have continued supporting the United Nations Command and Military Armistice Commission since 1998 as part of efforts to maintain peace between North and South Korea.
Defence officials say the latest training exercise strengthens interoperability between allied forces while reinforcing regional security partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.
The deployment also reflects growing international cooperation amid increasing geopolitical tensions and security concerns throughout the wider Asia-Pacific region.
