3rd Infantry Division (South Korea)

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The 3rd Infantry Division (Korean: 제3보병사단, Hanja: 第三步兵師團) is an infantry division of the Republic of Korea Army. Based in Cheorwon County, Gangwon Province, it is part of the V Corps. The division is nicknamed White Skull, its colors are white and blue, and its march is the Third Division Hymn. It has served since May 12, 1949.

Origins and structure
The unit began as the 3rd Brigade on December 1, 1947, and was upgraded to a full division on May 12, 1949.

Korean War history
When North Korea invaded in 1950, the 3rd Division helped defend the Seoul–Daejeon corridor and fought in the Battle of the Pusan Perimeter. It later engaged in actions around Pohang, capturing the town on September 20, 1950, and pushing NKPA forces toward Yongdok. During the war, the division fought in more than 150 battles and is credited with killing or capturing over 51,000 enemy soldiers.

Ceremonial duties
Since 1991, the 3rd Division has maintained a ceremonial guard unit at Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul to welcome heads of state and perform guard-changing ceremonies. The tradition grew from a decision following a U.S. presidential visit, with the first ceremony held in 1996 after thorough preparation.

Current leadership
The current commander is Maj. Gen. Park Jin-hee. Notable past commanders include Maj. Gen. Lee Ung-jun and Maj. Gen. Park Chung-in.