Kiwis maintaining the truce on the Korean Peninsula

The 12 Kiwis currently deployed to Operation Monitor are working to the United Nations Command in Seoul and United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission (UNMAC) at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), also known as the Joint Security Area, between North and South Korea.

From educating Republic of Korea military personnel on the Armistice Rules of Engagement, to developing policy for removal of mines in the DMZ and communicating with North Korean military personnel, the Kiwis encounter a wide range of situations and challenges throughout the deployment.

Senior National Officer Lieutenant Colonel Jason Healee says the key strength of the Kiwis operating across the various roles is their ability to network, build relationships and train others to succeed.

“There are currently 18 nations that make up United Nations Command, and our team is seen as professional and diligent, often performing above and beyond expectation levels. 

“There are cultural barriers within the multinational environment and because the armistice was signed in 1953 we’re working with decades old policy, so we have to be able to adapt to change and be good at problem solving.”

Three of the Kiwis deployed are working in the DMZ, which LTCOL Healee described as a surreal experience.

“You need to find the balance of not being so wired that you’re on edge all the time, and not so relaxed that you become complacent.”

The mission provides a range of professional development opportunities for the NZDF contingent, and Kiwis have previously been requested to participate in interviews with defectors from North Korea.

“A part of the role of UNCMAC is to investigate defections that occur, and some of the team have been involved in the interviews with these people.  The rationale behind this is to have others of similar rank and age in the room, with the intent to aid in the comfort of the individual following what would have been a truly confronting experience.”

A further 41 NZDF will be deploying to the mission in early 2025, joining the UNC Honor Guard, the UNC Security Battalion operating in the DMZ.  This will make Op Monitor the second largest current NZDF deployment, reflecting the importance New Zealand places on supporting peace, stability and the international rules-based system in the Indo-Pacific region.