Located just 60 miles south of North Korea, Camp Humphreys in South Korea is the largest U.S. military base outside of the continental United States. Spanning more than 3,500 acres, this sprawling installation is not just a strategic outpost, but a little piece of America amid the complexities of the Korean Peninsula. Home to more than 40,000 people, the base offers a unique blend of familiar comfort and heightened military vigilance.
A Piece of Home in the Far East
Upon entering Camp Humphreys, visitors may be startled by its resemblance to an American city. 2000s rock band Hoobastank experienced this firsthand during their visit for a Fourth of July concert. Lead singer Doug Robb commented, “When we walked in the gate, I thought ‘Man, this is just like Texas.'” The base’s main street, lined with American-style eateries and mobile food trucks, stands out from the typical Korean landscape.
Camp Humphreys is designed to provide a glimpse of American life for its residents. From barbecue trucks serving both American and Korean cuisine to community events such as school fundraisers and Scouts activities, the base strives to replicate the comforts of home. The presence of Patriot missile defense systems is a stark reminder of the strategic importance of this location due to its proximity to North Korea.
Strategic Importance and Expansion
The base’s strategic importance has grown with rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula. North Korea’s aggressive rhetoric and growing nuclear capabilities have made Camp Humphreys a central component of U.S. military strategy in the region. The installation houses U.S. Forces Korea, the U.S. Eighth Army, and the 2nd Infantry Division, among other important commands. Its facilities include the U.S.-South Korea Combined Forces Command and the United Nations Command, which play a vital role in maintaining security on the peninsula.
Established more than a century ago as Pyeongtaek Airfield during the Japanese colonial era, Camp Humphreys has evolved considerably. The base’s transformation accelerated with a major expansion project in 2004 that saw U.S. forces relocate to Humphreys from several smaller bases around Seoul. The expansion, completed in 2018, came at a cost of $10.8 billion, with 90% of the funding provided by the South Korean government.
The expansion has also been accompanied by logistical and community enhancements. New housing blocks, schools and facilities have been built to accommodate the growing population. With plans for further development, including an aviation hangar and additional barracks, Camp Humphreys is set to support a population of 45,000 in the near future.
Life on Base
Despite its strategic importance, Camp Humphreys is also a community where families build their lives and experiences. For many service members and their families, the base is a temporary home. For example, Sergeant Terry Cook and his wife, Rae, are adjusting to life at Humphreys with their five children. Ray, who manages the home and shares her experiences via YouTube, considers the base a “mini-America,” reflecting the blend of familiarity and novelty that characterizes life there.
The base’s amenities contribute to a sense of normalcy for its residents. The commissary offers American staples like Krispy Kreme doughnuts, and local businesses, such as Lihkol Delights run by Dymen McCoy, cater to the community’s tastes and needs. These familiar amenities help keep up morale and preserve a sense of connection to home.
Challenges and Resilience
Living at Camp Humphreys comes with its own set of challenges. The proximity to North Korea means that readiness and safety are paramount. Service members and their families are regularly briefed on evacuation procedures and must maintain a state of readiness. Vehicles must have a minimum fuel level, and everyone carries a “go bag” filled with essential items.
The base’s community life is deeply intertwined with these security measures. Despite the underlying tensions, the camaraderie and sense of shared purpose among residents is evident. For many, like Sergeant Cook, the base is more than just a military outpost; it is a place of opportunity and a testament to the resiliency and adaptability of military families.
A Microcosm of America
Camp Humphreys is a microcosm of American life, reflecting the broader experiences of U.S. military personnel deployed overseas. The expansion of the base and the arrival of new residents highlight the changing nature of military deployments and the need to balance strategic interests with the well-being of service members and their families.
The base also underscores the role of immigration in the U.S. military. A recent naturalization ceremony at Humphreys saw service members from a variety of countries become U.S. citizens, symbolizing the diverse backgrounds and shared commitments that define the U.S. military.
