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ROK-U.S. Marines Conclude KMEP 25.2, Continuing Commitment to Regional Security

13 August 2025

From 1st Lt. Robert Ellerhorst, 3d Marine Division

CAMP MUJUK, South Korea — U.S. Marines from 3d Marine Division and Republic of Korea Marines from the ROK 1st and 2nd Marine Divisions concluded Korean Marine Exchange Program 25.2 in August 2025, the latest iteration of the two countries’ semi-annual exercise.

The ROK-U.S. Alliance continuously works toward upholding a prosperous Indo-Pacific. The month-long exercise, included live-fire ranges, mountain warfare training, explosive ordnance disposal training and tactical combat casualty care.

KMEP 25.2 culminated with a simulated force-on-force amphibious assault and a simulated air assault. This culminating event showcased the skills practiced throughout the exercise in a test of the two forces’ abilities to accomplish shared objectives and combined capabilities.

KMEP 25.2 also takes place in the U.S. Marine Corps' 250th year, a milestone that underscores the importance of enduring alliances. This exercise with the Republic of Korea military highlights a strong partnership and commitment to peace and security on the Korean Peninsula, while innovating training methods and testing the capabilities of modern assets.

“It’s an honor to continue training with our counterparts in the ROK Marine Corps,” said Maj. Gen. Kyle Ellison, commanding general of 3d Marine Division. “Their exceptional professionalism and tactical expertise make our alliance stronger, and we remain dedicated to strengthening this vital partnership that ensures peace and stability in the region.”

In addition to the culminating event, ROK and U.S. Marines continued strengthening their logistical support abilities in the region, including bilateral air resupply and casualty extraction drills.

“We are committed to adapting to changes and upholding our shared goal of maintaining regional peace,” said Maj. Gen. Young-Kil Choi, commanding general of 2nd ROK Marine Division. “We are dedicated to fostering an ironclad partnership through realistic field training with the U.S. Marine Corps, staying tactically and operationally aligned to defend our shared values.”

KMEP 25.2 exemplified an unwavering bond that ROK and U.S. Marines share through combined training to maintain security in the region. Every training event in the exercise forges a commitment to maintain peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific.

For any media queries, please contact 3d Marine Division, Communication Strategy and Operations at 3DIV_COMMSTRAT@usmc.mil. Photos, videos, and news stories about 3d Marine Division are available at https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/3MD

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