"Military Brings Combat Rations 3 Months Past Expiration During 12·3 Emergency Martial Law"

Photos Released by Rep. Chu Mi-ae's Office
Combat Ration Management Issues Likely to Surface

It has been revealed that the military brought combat rations past their expiration date during the illegal martial law on December 3.

It has been revealed that the military brought combat rations that were three months past their expiration date during the illegal martial law on December 3. Provided by the office of Assemblywoman Chu Mi-ae

Photos released on the 2nd by Rep. Chu Mi-ae of the Democratic Party of Korea showed boxes of combat rations labeled "Instant Ready-to-Eat Combat Meal Type 1." The expiration date on these rations was marked as September 16, 2024. The photos were taken around 12:30 a.m. on the 4th, meaning the rations were nearly three months past their expiration date. Previously, the Ministry of National Defense stated, "Stockpiled food is consumed through rotational feeding during training to ensure expiration dates are not exceeded." Last September, President Yoon Suk-yeol also visited the Army’s 15th Division during the Chuseok holiday and instructed, "Ensure sufficient supply of canned food and combat rations to remote units."

However, with evidence emerging that the military actually deployed expired combat rations during the emergency martial law, concerns about combat ration management have surfaced. Rep. Chu said, "President Yoon not only failed to keep his promise to improve military welfare but also used the military for a personal coup," adding, "We will look after soldiers wounded by martial law so they can serve properly and work to improve military welfare."

According to the manufacturer’s website, the product consists of beef fried rice, meatloaf, seasoned sausage, and other items. This product is a non-commercial item manufactured for military supply. Combat rations are stockpiled to prepare for operational deployment and other situations. They are designed to be easily heated and eaten during wartime. Food that passes its expiration date may pose risks of spoilage and deterioration.