These members of the Korean Augmentation To The US Army, or KATUSA, are assigned to USFK combat and support units, where they carry out duties in combat operations, administrative support or logistics.

They are generally under the command of the USFK, though they are managed and trained by the South Korean military, through the Eighth U.S. Army's ROK Army Support Group.

The KATUSA program started in August 1950, during the Korean War. Approximately 500,000 South Korean soldiers have served in KATUSA to date, with about 3,300 assigned to it presently.

Soldiers grapple in a match of ssirum, or traditional Korean wrestling, during the annual KATUSA-U.S. Soldier Friendship Week at Yongsan Base in Seoul.

Regarded as almost military diplomats, KATUSA soldiers play a central role in strengthening Korea-U.S. relations and publicizing their country. In addition to their basic duties, including translation and interpretation, they teach American servicemen Hangul and sometimes even invite them to their homes to introduce them to Korean culture and customs.

In return, American soldiers invite the parents of KATUSA soldiers to their bases, showing them their offices and presenting them with souvenir gifts. American soldiers are said to hold the capabilities of KATUSA soldiers in high esteem.

Colin Powell, former chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff and secretary of state, once served in South Korea as a battalion commander. In his memoir he said, "Of all the soldiers who were under my command, the (South Korean) KATUSAs were the most elite group of soldiers."

But unfortunately, not a few KATUSA soldiers have developed anti-American sentiments after having their national pride wounded by disagreeable American soldiers. Many stress the need to resolve this issue.

(englishnews@chosun.com )