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Now... this next item might not be for everyone, but for the more adventurous of us there′s
a festival running in Korea′s central Chungcheongnamdo Province that gives regular folk like us the
chance to experience what it′s like to be a soldier in the South Korean military.
Kim Hyun-bin reports. Since all able-bodied men in Korea are required
to serve in the military,... they are well aware of what it′s like to live as a cadet,
day in and day out. But that leaves a large segment of the population,
women and children included, that don′t have a good idea of what goes on inside and
out of the barracks. To enhance understanding, the Army Headquarters
opened the 12th Ground Forces Festival in Gyeryong city this week under the theme, "an
Army that connects with the people." "The Ground Forces Festival is the country′s
largest military fair. It offers visitors the chance to see, hear and experience all
aspects of the Army." There are 51 events people can take part in.
People can get in the *** pit of an attack helicopters or get inside well fortified tanks
along with many hands on activities. "One of the most popular sections is a shooting
range where people get to fire off a real rifle using blank rounds."
Special military performances and stunts are scheduled throughout the day, where they re-enact
numerous missions senarios, and watch Korean made tanks put on a show.
"All men must go to the army and get to experience this, but women cannot. Through this festival,
we can get a glimpse of what soldiers go through. It was fun."
It′s not everyday one gets to hop on a military helicopter for an airborne tour or hitch a
ride on a tank. But at the festival, those options are available.
"My kids are curious about the life of military personnel and they wanted to ride on the helicopter
and tanks. They had the chance to do so and loved it. I would like give my sincere gratitude
to the Army, the Ministry of National Defense and all the soldiers helping out."
There is also a boot camp arena where one can test thier might and agilities. Mock Towers,
which are used for parachute training is a popular site. People need to test their might
as the tower is 11 meters high which is the most feared height in an average person.
The festival runs through this Sunday, October 5th.
Kim Hyun-bin, Arirang News Gyeryong City.