About this Unit
Commander Naval Forces Korea (CNFK) is a United States Navy command established in 1957 to serve as the principal naval component command in South Korea. Its origins trace back to the Korean War, when increasing U.S. naval operations in the region necessitated a unified command structure. CNFK is responsible for coordinating U.S. naval activities, supporting the Republic of Korea Navy, and ensuring readiness for combined operations on the Korean Peninsula. Over the decades, CNFK has played a key role in strengthening the U.S.-ROK alliance and maintaining regional security and maritime stability.
Historical Facts
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Established in 1957: Commander Naval Forces Korea (CNFK) was established in July 1957 to serve as the principal U.S. Navy command in South Korea, following the Korean War.
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Dual-Hatted Role: The CNFK commander is also the Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, United Nations Command (UNC), and leads multiple bilateral and multinational naval initiatives.
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Pusan Headquarters: CNFK is headquartered at Busan Naval Base, South Korea's principal port and a key logistical hub for combined ROK-U.S. naval operations.
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Operation Focus Lens: CNFK played a crucial role in Operation Focus Lens, a Cold War-era surveillance operation to monitor North Korean naval activities.
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Amphibious Exercises: CNFK routinely participates in high-profile amphibious exercises, such as Foal Eagle and Ssang Yong, to enhance interoperability between U.S. and Republic of Korea (ROK) forces.
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Direct Line to the Pacific Fleet: CNFK is a direct reporting unit to U.S. Pacific Fleet, providing a vital link between U.S. naval power in the Pacific and the Korean Peninsula.
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Support During Crises: CNFK has served as a key logistics and coordination hub during regional crises, including the 2010 sinking of the ROKS Cheonan and the shelling of Yeonpyeong Island.
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Naval Diplomacy: CNFK hosts annual Fleet Review and Navy-to-Navy talks with both ROK and other allied navies, strengthening regional partnerships and maritime security.
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Flagship Events: The command organizes the annual West Sea Defense Day commemoration to honor Korean and American sailors lost in naval confrontations with North Korea.
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First Female Commander: In 2021, Rear Admiral Buzz Donnelly became the first woman to serve as Commander, Naval Forces Korea, marking a milestone in the command’s history.
