The story of a South Korean non-commissioned officer (NCO) who chose frontline guard post (GP) duty over career transition training to support his unit and comrades has inspired fellow soldiers.
Sergeant Bae Min Seok of the Army’s 6th Infantry Division Chosan Brigade is the protagonist.
Sergeant Bae, who will be discharged in June next year, was initially scheduled to attend career transition training. However, he volunteered for GP duty and decided to continue guarding the frontline from February to April of the same year. His decision reflects his resolve to assist his comrades and contribute to fully operational GP readiness without replacements.
Having started as an enlisted soldier and later becoming an NCO, Bae faced significant challenges, including having to withdraw twice from the Junior Course at the Army NCO Academy due to a traffic accident. Commissioned as a term-based NCO in 2021 and later transitioning to short-term service, he faithfully performed his unit duties.
Sergeant Bae said, “Through military service, I gained diverse experiences, learned a lot, and felt proud to contribute to national security. I chose to discharge because I have other dreams to pursue, but if my country calls, I am always ready to serve again.”
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