The U.S. military in South Korea increased security at bases across the divided peninsula Friday after receiving a potential threat.
Security measures were stepped up after American law enforcement officials notified U.S. Forces Korea of the potential threat by an individual against the installations, according to a USFK announcement posted on social media.
“Organizations from USFK, [South Korea] and law enforcement are cooperating to appropriately assess the credibility of the threat,” it said. “During this time, you may see increased force protection measures.”
The statement didn’t specify the measures or elaborate on the potential threat due to the security concerns involved, but officials urged people to be vigilant.
“USFK requests your patience and cooperation as we work collectively to ensure our service members, families and community remains safe and secure,” the statement said.
USFK’s public affairs office provided no updates late Friday.
Some 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea, which remains technically at war with the North after their 1950-53 conflict ended in an armistice instead of a peace treaty.
Many servicemembers have families with them. Civilian contractors and South Korean employees also have access to the bases.
———
© 2019 the Stars and Stripes
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
