Patrons try out the newly renovated food court at Camp Walker, South Korea, April 30, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes)
CAMP WALKER, South Korea — Soldiers stationed at this Army base southeast of Seoul can enjoy a revamped dining experience following an $8.2 million renovation of the main exchange, which now features an expanded food court and additional amenities.
The Army and Air Force Exchange Service celebrated the updated facility’s reopening on April 22, unveiling a redesigned food court that nearly doubles previous seating capacity. A new Pizza Hut joins existing vendors Taco Bell, Subway and Smoothie King.
“Having a bigger food court and more choice makes a huge difference,” customer Tisha Gentle said at the facility on April 30. “Since our barracks don’t have kitchens, this really helps us have some better meals and convenience.”
Another patron, Kaylie Hudson, echoed that sentiment: “It’s great to see more diverse food options available, especially when we’re limited to what we can prepare in the barracks.”
Patrons try out the newly renovated food court at Camp Walker, South Korea, April 30, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes)
Shoppers vist the newly renovated exchange at Camp Walker, South Korea, April 30, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes)
The expansion added 300 square feet to the food court area, according to an April 24 email from AAFES spokesman Travis Day. The renovation added updated lighting, polished concrete floors, and a more modern design throughout the exchange.
A ceremony was held to mark the occasion, led by Daegu Garrison commander Col. David Henning, AAFES Pacific Region commander Air Force Col. Jason Beck, and AAFES Korean Southern general manager Boris Nasci.
“This much-needed upgrade enhances the shopping experience from top to bottom,” Beck said at the event, according to Day’s email. “Making sure everyone in this community has access to the best tastes of homes in the best surroundings.”
A sign welcomes patrons to the newly renovated food court at Camp Walker, South Korea, April 30, 2025. (Trevares Johnson/Stars and Stripes)
Originally built in 1986 and last updated in 1999, the Walker exchange gained 2,153 additional square feet during the overhaul. Other improvements include self-checkout lanes, an entrance skylight, updated ceilings, LED lighting, and a new HVAC system.
The updated facility also includes a new barbershop, vendor kiosks, and a mural honoring the base’s role in South Korea’s military history.
The Army contributed approximately $2 million to the project, AAFES said.
