The Ministry of National Defense announced on 1st that it will additionally accept applications for compensation and rewards in accordance with the enactment of the 'Special Mission Performers Compensation Act' and the '6.25 Irregular Forces Compensation Act' amendments.
The Special Mission Performers Compensation Act was enacted in 2004 to provide compensation to personnel who had carried out special missions in military intelligence units and their bereaved families. The deadline for existing compensation applications was closed in November 2019; however, due to legal amendments last year, applications for compensation will be accepted for an additional year from today until March 31, 2026.
The Ministry of National Defense plans to resume compensation operations for special mission performers and bereaved families who have not yet applied for compensation, in cooperation with the Defense Intelligence Command and others.
The 6.25 Irregular Forces Compensation Act was enacted in April 2021 to recognize the contributions of those who were affiliated with the Kelo Unit (KLO) and the U.S. 8240 Unit as civilians during the Korean War, collecting intelligence and engaging in guerrilla activities in enemy territory. The deadline for compensation applications expired in October last year; however, the Ministry of National Defense decided to accept applications for rewards for an additional year from today until March 31 of next year in accordance with the legal amendments.
So far, a total of 3,880 individuals have been recognized as 6.25 irregular forces contributors, and approximately 37 billion won in rewards have been paid to them and their families.