Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

To celebrate the 76th anniversary of the founding of the Armed Forces, the Armed Forces Day Event Planning Group has appointed Choi Yeong-jae, a broadcaster with a military background, and Agent H (real name: Hwang Ji-hun) as promotional ambassadors for this year’s Armed Forces Day events.

For the first time, Armed Forces Day will feature ambassadors who will help the Armed Forces communicate with the general public. The Planning Group, along with the promotional ambassadors, will work to publicize the significance of Armed Forces Day and strive to increase public awareness and participation in the events.

The promotional ambassadors, who received appointment plaques, will participate in various events aligned with the Armed Forces Day theme of unity with the people, using their talents to promote Armed Forces Day.

Reservist Master Sergeant Hong Beom-seok, formerly of the Army Special Warfare Command, who has appeared on the TV show Steel Troops along with Army Reservist Major Choi Yeong-jae, Reservist Sergeant First Class Lee Dong-gyu, formerly of the Korea Defense Intelligence Command, and Reservist Petty Officer First Class Kim Min-jun, formerly of the Naval Special Warfare Flotilla, will assist in the promotional activities as supporters. The promotional ambassadors and supporters will continue their efforts at the Army Ground Forces Festival, which will be held from October 2 to 6 as part of the K Military Festival following the Armed Forces Day event.

*Steel Troops is a military survival entertainment program that aired from 2021 to 2023 (Seasons 1 to 3), featuring reservists from various special forces units competing in teams.

The Planning Group stated, “The appointed ambassadors have demonstrated the leadership, strength, and professionalism of the military to the public through their broadcasts and have maintained a positive image by participating in campaigns that promote and reward patriotism. We expect the promotional ambassadors to contribute to enhancing the image of the Armed Forces as both strong and approachable.”

Choi Yeong-jae, who retired as an army captain, gained extensive experience in special warfare units during his military service and became known to the public through his role on the TV show Steel Troops. He currently appears on television and gives lectures to schools, police, and other government agencies. In particular, he has been actively involved in social good initiatives such as the Memorial Day Appreciation Challenge and the Military Manpower Administration’s Military Service Obligation Fulfillment Campaign. Choi stated, “As an honorary ambassador, I will dedicate myself to bringing the armed forces and the people closer together with a sense of mission.”

Agent H, who served in the Naval Special Warfare Flotilla (UDT/SEAL) and was part of the deployed Chunghae Unit, acquired extensive professional knowledge and real-world combat experience. Well-known through his work in broadcasting and on his YouTube channel, he is especially noted for championing the improved treatment of soldiers and national merit recipients, as well as for his fundraising initiatives for Korean War veterans and other national heroes. Last year, he pledged to donate KRW 380 million over three years and received a citation from the Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs for his contribution to promoting a culture of honoring veterans.

Agent H said, “I will dedicate myself to increasing public participation and interest so that people can develop respect and appreciation for the armed forces.”