As part of ongoing efforts to ensure gender equality in the military, Korea’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRCK) has issued a set of recommendations aimed at improving the conditions for female soldiers stationed at General Outpost (GOP) units.

Following on-site investigations across 25 Army units between June and November 2024, the NHRCK identified several areas requiring urgent attention. These included inadequate restrooms and accommodations – sometimes shared with kitchen staff or provided in external containers – and the complete absence of such facilities in some new buildings. The investigation found that in some units, essential facilities for female soldiers were either non-existent or had to be shared with kitchen staff; in other cases, the number of toilets was insufficient. In some newly constructed buildings, such facilities were completely absent or provided externally via container-type units. NHRCK determined that these issues require improvement in accordance with existing regulations.

The Commission also raised concerns about the safety of female soldiers’ living environments, noting a lack of security bars and electronic door locks in essential facilities and quarters, contrary to Defense and Military Facilities Standards. In addition, many female GOP outpost leaders are forced to use office spaces as their living quarters, compromising both their privacy and ability to rest.

Another key issue highlighted was the ill-fitting nature of standard-issue training gear. Despite a broader welfare plan running from 2023 to 2027, there is currently no targeted strategy for developing uniforms and equipment designed specifically for female soldiers.

The NHRCK has called on the Ministry of National Defense to take concrete steps to address these shortcomings and ensure that female soldiers are afforded the facilities, safety, and equipment they need to serve equally and effectively. SecurityWomen welcomes this important call for structural reform to support meaningful gender inclusion in military settings. Properly designed and fitted personal protective equipment (PPE) for female soldiers across all contexts is key to improving women's inclusion in the security sector.

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To read the full story, see the press release here

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