USFK Apologizes to Pyeongtaek City Over Dance Party at Humphreys Base

[Suwon Ilbo=Reporter Seo Dong-young] Pyeongtaek City announced on the 8th that it received an apology from the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) regarding the recent controversy over a dance party held at Humphreys Base in Pyeongtaek.

Humphreys Base Commander Michael Tremblay and 51st Combat Fighter Wing Commander John Gonzales conveyed their apology to the city and reported that they are taking necessary measures including investigating the matter and closing the facility.

On the 4th, a salsa club dance party was held in the dining hall within Humphreys Base, and it was confirmed that dozens of participants were not wearing masks.

Pyeongtaek Mayor Chung Jang-seon said, "USFK has made many efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the local community, but this incident could increase concerns and anxiety among residents," and requested "prevention of recurrence and strict compliance with quarantine guidelines."

Meanwhile, a city official held an emergency meeting with officials from U.S. Eighth Army on the 8th and said, "With the prolonged COVID-19 situation, both residents and USFK are facing difficult times, but let us overcome COVID-19 together through strict compliance with quarantine guidelines so that the efforts we have built together are not undermined by a moment of negligence."