Internet Connectivity and Communication for South Korean Soldiers: Video Calls and FaceTime

Can South Korean soldiers video call or FaceTime?

Yes - South Korea is one of the most highly connected and fastest internet countries in the world. If your new boyfriend can text or message you, he can certainly voice video chat and FaceTime you. However, he may not want to, as this may reveal that he is a pimply-faced West African teenager attempting to scam you, rather than a South Korean soldier.

Internet Access for U.S. Military Personnel

Most United States military personnel in various locations have access to the internet. If you are speaking to someone who claims they can't access it, they are likely not a soldier but a Nigerian scammer.

During my eight years of service in the USAF in Korea, I communicated frequently with military members, both military and civilians. While I am careful about what I discuss, as I do not want to get them in trouble, from what I understand, they are granted half an hour each night to use their phones. This time is typically spent playing games, calling home, keeping up with social media, or trying to access the internet.

Communication and Entertainment for South Korean Soldiers

South Korean soldiers have it a lot easier in terms of internet and communication. They are often given the opportunity to use their phones in the evenings, allowing them to engage in various activities such as gaming, calling home, and staying connected through social media. Video calls and FaceTime are also allowed, provided they are within the designated time.

When it comes to the mandatory two years of military service for men in South Korea, the conditions are significantly better than in other countries. Whereas in the past U.S. soldiers were not even allowed to bring their phones during basic training or beyond, South Korean soldiers have access to their phones during limited hours, which can be valuable for personal communication and staying connected with loved ones.

Challenges and Restrictions

Despite the modernization of communication, soldiers, especially in the United States, can face restrictions. During the early days of smartphone proliferation in the U.S. military, soldiers were not allowed to carry their phones from basic training onwards. This has likely changed over time, but cell phone use remains a sensitive issue, especially during training and on active duty in the battlefield. Many phones have location tracking capabilities, which can pose significant risks depending on the operational environment and the specific post or condition a soldier is in.

Outside of these limitations, soldiers have plenty of downtime to relax, enjoy their free time, and connect with friends and family. This can include activities such as playing sports, exploring the city, and enjoying food and other leisure activities. However, even with these opportunities, the military environment often restricts recreational phone use for security and logistical reasons.

For soldiers in South Korea, the ability to use their phones, including for video calls and FaceTime, is a significant perk that can ease the distance between them and their loved ones. This privilege, combined with the highly connected nature of the country, makes communication more accessible and easier for both soldiers and their families.

In conclusion, while South Korean soldiers do have the option to video call and FaceTime their loved ones, it is a privilege that must be carefully managed due to security and logistical considerations. As with any military force, the focus remains on preparedness and security, which often means regulating personal communication to ensure readiness for operational duty.