by Yoo Na-hyunPosted : March 26, 2026, 17:59Updated : March 26, 2026, 17:59
Newly commissioned non-commissioned officers (NCOs) attend a ceremony at a military academy in Iksan, North Jeolla Province on March 26, 2026. Yonhap
Iksan, March 26 (AJP) - About 788 cadets were commissioned as non-commissioned officers (NCOs) at a ceremony at a military academy in Iksan, North Jeolla Province on Thursday, after completing about 12 weeks of training.
According to the army, it was the largest class in the past five years. Of the 788 newly commissioned NCOs, 579 were selected through a civilian recruitment program including 232 women, while 209 were former enlisted soldiers.
The Army attributed the increase to improved service conditions along with stronger efforts to recruit more cadets.
They will undergo training tailored to their duties and responsibilities before being assigned to military units across the country including front-line positions.
Army Chief of Staff Gen. Kim Gyu-ha (far left) pins the rank insignia on a newly commissioned non-commissioned officer (NCO) at a military academy in Iksan, North Jeolla Province on March 26, 2026. Yonhap
Newly commissioned non-commissioned officers (NCOs) pose for a group photo at a military academy in Iksan, North Jeolla Province on March 26, 2026. Yonhap
Newly commissioned non-commissioned officers (NCOs) attend a ceremony at a military academy in Iksan, North Jeolla Province on March 26, 2026. Yonhap
Newly commissioned non-commissioned officers (NCOs) pose for a photo at a military academy in Iksan, North Jeolla Province on March 26, 2026. Yonhap
