AFN Casey Concludes Operations in Area I
CAMP CASEY, South Korea — AFN Casey, the United States military’s broadcast station that has provided live coverage of Soldiers in the strategically significant area between Seoul and the Demilitarized Zone, is officially closing its doors.
Despite the shutdown, AFN will maintain its satellite broadcasts for the region known as Area I from Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek. Furthermore, service members and civilians in Area I will continue to have access to programming online and via mobile devices.
This closure is part of a larger initiative by the American Forces Network to consolidate its stations across Korea, coinciding with the relocation of a majority of U.S. troops from northern Seoul to the south, particularly to Camp Humphreys.
Area I includes military installations such as Camp Casey and Camp Hovey near Dongducheon, as well as Camp Red Cloud, Camp Jackson, and Camp Stanley located in Uijeongbu, an hour north of Seoul. It also encompasses the Joint Security Area on the DMZ and the Rodriguez Live Fire Complex in Pocheon.
On February 1, operations ceased, and AFN Casey’s station manager, Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael Garrett, indicated that the disassembly of broadcast booths began on January 3, with a final closure date set for February 15.
The end of AFN Casey signifies the conclusion of live radio broadcasts that engaged audiences from various military camps and local communities, including two daily shows that catered specifically to Soldier and Airman interests. Programs often featured guests from local military units, enhancing community engagement.
While AFN Casey’s station may be closing, Garrett reassured that programming and service quality would remain uninterrupted, stating, “Other than not seeing our faces in the community… that’s going to be the only change really. The service is not interrupted.” AFN will continue its operations from its flagship station at Camp Humphreys and other existing locations across Korea.
