USAG Humphreys, Republic of Korea – Lt. Gen. Bernard S. Champoux, United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, United States Forces Korea chief of staff and commander Eighth U.S. Army, held a bilateral press conference with Director General Kim Kie Soo, Director General of the Korean Ministry of Defense USFK Relocation Office, at the new Eighth Army Headquarters Building on United States Army Garrison Humphreys Dec. 10.

The ROK – U.S. leaders provided updates to local and international members of the press on advancements in Alliance transformation and the relocation of U.S. Forces to military installation near the city of Pyeongtaek and other locations within the ROK.

“This is an exciting time to be part of the ROK – U.S. Alliance as we move to a future that ensures we are properly postured to continue to defend the Republic of Korea and both of our nations’ interest in regional stability,” said Lt. Gen. Champoux. “This week, we executed an assessment of the progress made towards our goal of relocating the majority of U.S. Forces into two enduring hubs around the cities of Pyeongtaek and Daegu”

Construction at USAG-Humphreys continues as 2015 is on track to be the peak year for construction with some projects continuing into 2016.

Other units within USFK has already made major moves within the Republic of Korea including Commander Naval Forces Korea, which relocated its headquarters from Seoul to the port city of Busan. Other units, including the 94th Military Police Battalion, made the move to USAG-Humphreys in 2013.

Successful progress towards transforming the ROK – U.S. Alliance is only possible through teamwork, according to Dir. Gen. Kim.

“This project requires the utmost level of coordination between the ROK and U.S.; with coordination regarding the assessment of requirements, design, construction, and relocation being carried out under both parties’ agreement based on our Yongsan Relocation Program.”

Dir. Gen. Kim also said these moves will ensure that the ROK – U.S. Alliance remains focused on its mission to deter aggression and defend the ROK, a sentiment echoed by Champoux.

“These moves will not only improve our readiness, but also clearly demonstrate both the ROK and U.S. enduring commitment to the Alliance,” Champoux said.