YONGSAN GARRISON, Seoul, Republic of Korea – Combined Forces Command, United Nations Command and United States Forces Command hosted a change of command ceremony for the CFC deputy commander on Knight Field Sept. 17.

Republic of Korea Army Gen. Kim Hyun-Jip assumed the role of CFC deputy commander and commander, Ground Component Command from Gen. Park Sun-Woo during a combined ceremony attended by numerous ROK – U.S. Alliance leaders and distinguished guests from around the world.

“Since his graduation from the Korea Military Academy in 1979, Gen. Park has demonstrated exemplary leadership and a dedication to the finest traditions of the ROK Army,” said UNC, CFC, USFK commander Gen. Curtis M. Scaparrotti. “The Combined Forces Command has benefited greatly from his steady leadership, selfless service and dedication to the ROK – U.S. Alliance. I wish him continued success as he moves into the next stage of his life after such a distinguished military career.”

Gen. Park, a native of Gwangju, will retire after a 36-year career in the ROK Army. Gen. Park’s career has included assignments as the chief director of operations for the ROK Joint Chiefs of Staff, commanding general of ROK Army 2nd Corps, 26th Corps, and the Zaytun Division. He is also a recognized expert in combined and joint operations.

“Gen. Park’s passionate leadership, profound military expertise, and keen insight contributed significantly to the strengthening of the Republic of Korea and the United States Alliance,” said Lt. Gen. Bernard S. Champoux, UNC, CFC, USFK chief of staff and commanding general of the Eighth United States Army, during remarks at the ceremony. “He personally and diligently assured the combined command stood ready to ‘Fight Tonight’ guaranteeing security and stability in Northeast Asia. His adept vision, extensive knowledge, and diplomatic skills were vital to resolving numerous issues of strategic importance and bringing the Alliance to its highest state of readiness.”

Gen. Kim Hyun-Jip, a native of Daejon and also a graduate of the Korea Military Academy, was most recently the commander of the Third ROK Army prior to his selection to assume the CFC deputy commander position and commander of the Ground Component Command.

Gen. Kim, a career Infantry officer, has previously served as the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, head of the Korean Defense Intelligence Agency, and the commander of the ROK 5th Corps and 28th Infantry Division.

“Sir, It is our great fortune to have you join our team,” Lt. Gen. Champoux told Gen. Kim during his remarks at the ceremony. “We have absolute confidence that you will strengthen not just our ROK counterparts but our ROK – U.S. Alliance.”