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HWASEONG, South Korea — U.S. and Republic of Korea Marines will launch the Korean Marine Exchange Program 26.2 on July 28, a bilateral exercise running through Aug. 8 at locations across South Korea.
The second iteration of this year’s annual training series pairs III Marine Expeditionary Force units with their ROK Marine Corps counterparts in realistic scenarios intended to sharpen the combined force’s capabilities and reinforce the alliance.
“The historic bond between the U.S. and ROK Marine Corps is the foundation of our combined readiness,” said Lt. Gen. Benjamin Watson, Commanding General of III MEF. “KMEP furthers that bond by providing essential training for our Marines to refine our combined capabilities, strengthen our alliance, and enhance our ability to operate effectively together as one team.”
Planned events emphasize integrated, multi-domain operations and include combined live-fire drills, close air support, amphibious missions, and extensive logistics maneuvers involving both forces.
“Training side-by-side allows US and ROK Marines to build the mutual trust and tactical proficiency required of our alliance,” said Lt. Gen. Ju Il-seok, commandant of the Republic of Korea Marine Corps. “We remain dedicated to advancing our combined capabilities through realistic, challenging scenarios.”
“Every year, KMEP plays a critical role in advancing the alliance on the Korean Peninsula. Not only does it provide opportunities for interoperability between our two Marine Corps, but it also gives Marines from both nations the invaluable relationship-building that comes from sharing everything from a fighting position to a meal in the field,” said Maj. Gen. Valerie Jackson, Commander of Marine Forces Korea. “It is critical for Marines to come here, build that relationship with one of our oldest allies, and train on hallowed ground that so many Marines before them have trained.”
Organizers say the exercise is designed to deepen integration and sustain high readiness levels to deter aggression and support stability in the Indo-Pacific.
