Army reservist Corporal Hyun Kim was promoted from craftsman to corporal and presented with an Army Silver Commendation during Exercise Freedom Shield in South Korea earlier this year.
Corporal Kim received the award for achievement as an Army linguist representing the 1st (Australian) Division during the Exercise Freedom Shield series in South Korea between March 2022 and August 2024.
He provided translation and communication support to the Australian contingent, UN Command and other foreign militaries, enhancing operational interoperability and helping build a stronger relationship between the ADF and the South Korean Army.
Joining as a technician electrician in 2014, Corporal Kim transitioned to the Reserves in 2022, posting to Headquarters 1st (Australian) Division in 2024.
Commander 1st (Australian) Division Major General Ash Collingburn conferred the promotion and commendation at Camp Yongin near Seoul.
Corporal Kim has been kept busy as Australia continues to enhance its relationship with the South Korean Army.
'Over the multiple exercises, I learnt that my relationship-building in Korea is critical for supporting our contingent.'
"I was born in the Republic of Korea and immigrated to Australia with my parents when I was 14. When I enlisted, I couldn't imagine providing linguistic support with my poor English skills, but now I feel quite confident providing this support," he said.
"I enjoy every opportunity to be deployed as a linguist. It takes me out of my repeated daily routine and provides me with another satisfying role.
"Every deployment increased my skills in providing suitable support for the exercises. Over the multiple exercises, I learnt that my relationship-building in Korea is critical for supporting our contingent."
Corporal Kim said enhancing the person-to-person relations had been rewarding.
Across the five iterations of Exercise Freedom Shield that he has been part of, he has noticed a more colloquial and friendly tone in communication between the two nations.
He said it was an honour to receive a commendation and promotion to Corporal, even if he didn't know it was coming.
"I was told there would be an award during our division commander's visit to our contingent. So, I organised a location and photographer support from the ROK military for an award for an unannounced member," Corporal Kim said.
"On the day, everyone gathered around and waited for an announcement. I heard my name called out.
"It was a tremendous honour and an unforgettable moment to receive a promotion and commendation from the division commander."
