Experiences and Precautions of Military Personnel Against Foreign Espionage Attempts
Foreign espionage activities targeted at military personnel are not uncommon, as evidenced by numerous reports and firsthand accounts. One such experience submitted by a former US Army Sergeant highlights the potential risks faced by service members in Korea.
Incident Overview
Back in 1999, while serving as a Sergeant in the 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea, I found myself involved in a disturbing situation. One evening, during my regular duty in the heart of the city, I was approached by a lovely Russian woman who had been lured to Korea under false pretenses. She claimed she was working as a maid after arriving, only to be deceived when her passport was seized and she was forced to serve as a 'drinky girl' (a euphemism for sex work).
Encountering the Target
The woman's father was a Colonel in the Russian Armed Forces and a medical doctor. She asked me to assist her in contacting the Russian embassy in Seoul. Despite my reservations, I agreed to take her to the embassy with the expectation that she could seek help. However, upon our arrival, we were ambushed, leaving our situation perilous.
Counterintelligence Measures
As we approached the embassy, two men in cheap suits, who later revealed themselves to be military intelligence agents, intentionally blocked our path. They demanded information about me, and my lies about my occupation and military duties were soon uncovered. Panicked, I tried to escape, but the agents followed me to the embassy. In a tense standoff, I decided to flee.
After returning to my unit, I realized the severity of the situation. The next day, before PT (Physical Training) formation, I reported to the First Sergeant, who immediately responded with urgency. He contacted higher command, and a highly experienced CI (Counterintelligence) officer was dispatched to assess the situation.
Investigation and Conclusion
The CI officer listened to my account and, after a thorough examination of the situation, informed me that he was satisfied with my explanation and the actions I took. He warned me about the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing the grave risk of espionage, especially in Korea. He also showed me a discreetly taken photo evidence, capturing my entry and exit from the Russian embassy. He concluded with an ominous reminder that, 'we are always watching.'
Advisories and Precautions for Military Personnel
This experience serves as a wake-up call for all military personnel. It underscores the importance of being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities immediately. Below are some key precautions and advisories:
Security Briefings
Annual security briefings, such as those conducted for Subversion And Espionage Directed Against the Army (SAEDA), are crucial. These briefings provide essential information on potential threats and ensure that service members are aware of the risks.
Personal Awareness
Military personnel should stay alert and avoid situations that might lead to compromise. This includes being cautious about personal interactions and avoiding areas or activities that could be leveraged for espionage.
Quick Response Protocols
Established protocols for reporting suspicious activities ensure that any concerning situations are addressed promptly. Immediate notification to superiors and professional CI officers is imperative.
Travel Precautions
When traveling, service members should be prepared for unexpected situations and have a clear plan for seeking assistance. Knowledge of local security services and embassies can be invaluable.
Conclusion
The experience of the 1999 incident highlights the vigilance required by military personnel to protect against espionage. By understanding and applying the appropriate security measures, we can minimize the risks and safeguard the integrity of our forces. The story serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat that foreign espionage poses to our military and the need for constant awareness and preparedness.