Four-generation Marine family makes history

South Korea’s Marine Corps has, for the first time, produced a four-generation service family, marking a milestone in its 77-year history.

At a graduation ceremony for the 1,327th recruit class on April 2 at the Marine Corps Education and Training Command in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, Pvt. Kim Jun-young received the Corps’ signature red name tag, formally beginning his service. Following his great-grandfather, grandfather and father, he becomes the first fourth-generation Marine in the Corps. Until now, 58 families had produced three consecutive generations.

“My goal is to convey to the audience the same emotion I feel in rehearsal.”

Kim Ki-min, a principal dancer with Russia’s Mariinsky Ballet, is set to perform in South Korea in Maurice Béjart’s landmark work “Boléro,” created in 1961 for Béjart Ballet Lausanne.

Kim, 34, will take on the lead role of “La Mélodie” as the company returns to South Korea for the first time in 15 years. In a video interview on April 2, he said performing “Boléro” had long been a personal ambition since his student days at Korea National University of Arts. He added that audiences in Russia had frequently expressed a desire to see his interpretation of the piece.

Kim’s great-grandfather, the late Kim Jae-chan of the third class, fought in major Korean War battles, including the Incheon landing and the Battle of Dosolsan, and was discharged as a staff sergeant. His grandfather, Kim Eun-il of the 173rd class, served in the Vietnam War, taking part in operations in areas such as Chu Lai. His father, Kim Cheol-min of the 754th class, was stationed on the front lines of the Gimpo Peninsula, helping defend the western approaches to Seoul.

Growing up in a family shaped by wartime service and frontline duty, Kim said he embraced the Marine Corps ethos of perseverance from an early age.

“Becoming a Marine began with my family, but it is up to me to complete that journey,” he said. “With pride in being part of a four-generation Marine family, I will carry out my duties as a Marine.”

Kim’s grandfather traveled from Gapado Island off Jeju to attend the ceremony. “It is deeply meaningful to see four generations of our family serve in the Marine Corps,” he said. “I hope not only my grandson but all members of the 1,327th class will grow into strong Marines, protect the country and complete their service in good health.”


Sang-Ho Yun ysh1005@donga.com