May I visit my fiancé while she’s in Kunsan? Can I stay with her on base, or live nearby the base for three weeks?

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 13:38:03 -0400

Also, I’ll be visiting South Korea in July. I was wondering what the or living arrangements might look like during my stay. 3 weeks. Would it be possible to marry while I’m there as well? I’m also military, NG. She’s an AD soldier. Thank you.

Response by SMSgt Henry Kiester made Jun 7 at 2021 1:40 PM

SMSgt Henry Kiester — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 13:40:53 -0400

Things may have changed, but unless you are on orders, you will need a visa. Also, there is (was?) an exit fee (again, unless you had orders). Let us know how things go - good luck.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2021 2:09 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 14:09:10 -0400

As SMSgt Kiester said, you will probably need a visa if you are not on orders. When I took leave from Korea I had to show my leave form with orders to exit and enter South Korea. As you’re not married your fiancé is probably in single Soldier barracks and you will not be authorized to stay there. As far as staying close by, you’re more than free to to get a hotel etc. Everyone I know who got married in Korea went back to the states to do so.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jun 7 at 2021 3:49 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 15:49:40 -0400

Many of your questions can be answered on the State Department web site. You can enter ROK on a tourist visa, but you’ll have a limited stay. Your fiancé may be able to arrange a marriage through the installation chaplain. If your fiancé lives in the barracks, you probably won’t be allowed to stay with her. If she lives on the economy you probably can stay with her. You should plan on staying in a hotel. The installation billeting office may be able to recommend local hotels.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2021 10:16 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 22:16:52 -0400

Getting married in Korea isn’t a quick process from what I saw with a couple in my unit had to do. They had to go to the embassy in Seoul to get married. Honestly I think it would be easier to get married with both of you in the states. Since you are not her dependent you will need to find a hotel to live in for three weeks.

Response by MSgt Bill Rentz made Jun 8 at 2021 3:42 PM

MSgt Bill Rentz — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 15:42:55 -0400

When I was stationed in Kunsan years ago most of the units had unofficial visitors rooms in the dorms. Usually this was for use when your spouse or significant other came for a visit. Of course Temporary Lodging was also available but usually full up. Some nice hotels in Kunsan proper.

Response by TSgt Edwin Rollins made Aug 18 at 2021 11:21 PM

TSgt Edwin Rollins — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 23:21:16 -0400

Visiting Korea when not on orders is easy. You get a 90 day tourist visa when you arrive. Here at Kunsan spouses can stay with you if you want to share a twin size bed, or they have rooms for married people. You have to get with the dorm manager to arrange it. You can get married also but it has to be worked in advance and coordinated with the chapel and the commander and legal I think. (KEY WORD ADVANCE) because it will take a little time.