Seoul: A key Army command has issued a directive to all front-line border units to keep their crew-served weapons loaded, a military official said Friday, following a protocol breach where soldiers were found on duty with unloaded arms.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Army's 1st Corps, responsible for the western front, was found to have instructed its soldiers to use unloaded K6 heavy machine guns and K4 automatic grenade launchers while on guard duty, leaving live ammunition next to the firearms. This decision was reportedly made by the corps commander at his discretion, apparently to prevent accidental discharges.

The Army Ground Operations Command (GOC) has since conducted inspections of all five corps regarding their guard operations and the use of crew-served weapons. An official from the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) informed reporters that effective measures have been put in place. "Effective yesterday, the GOC issued a sectional order requiring all crew-served weapons at front-line guard posts and general outposts to remain loaded with mounted ammunition," the JCS official stated.

The GOC is currently assessing the readiness posture of all front-line border units, with plans to implement follow-up measures upon completion of the inspection. The firearms, including the K6 and K4, are intended to be kept belt-fed with live rounds loaded into the weapons to ensure an immediate response in emergency situations.

The recent protocol breach at the 1st Corps has raised concerns over the military's readiness and security posture, particularly at units responsible for the country's ground defense.