The sound of horses' hooves resonates at regular intervals. There are no commands but also no flaws in their movements. The rider and the horse move in perfect unison to complete alignment. The cavalry unit demonstrates more than just maneuverability or speed. It creates a scene integrating restrained movement, balance and controlled power.
To mark the Year of Byeongoh (Fire Horse) under the East Asian zodiac, Korea.net on March 18 visited the Korea Military Academy (KMA), the country's only institution to run a military cavalry unit. Located in Seoul's Nowon-gu District, the academy is the cradle of the Republic of Korea Army in developing elite officers. It also trains those eventually responsible for safeguarding national security and hosts activities as an educational institution that passes on the nation's traditions and spirit. Among these, the Gunma (Military Horse) Regiment is a prime example that reflects the academy's symbolism and educational value.
KMA cadets dedicate themselves and dream of becoming future leaders. This photo essay captures moments when they train with their horses.
By Lee Jeongwoo and Park Daejin
One breath
Fourth-year cadet Heo Jun-seok bonds with a horse. Founded in 1966, the Gunma Regiment symbolically shows another role and value of the KMA. The cadets cultivate the spirit of Hwarangdo, a traditional code of warrior ethics from the Silla Kingdom (57 B.C.-A.D. 935) and more recently a martial art, and noble spirit, as they develop the physical strength and boldness that officers must have.
Movement synchronized through empathy
Cadet Heo trains at the riding arena. The precise movements and balance created by the rider and his horse are the result of constant training and deep bonding. The horse does not move merely on command and the rider controls it not only through force. A single, fluid motion is created as they read each other's rhythms and synchronize their breathing. At the moment when human and animal move as one, restraint and control grow further evident.
Another way of promoting KMA
Third-year cadet Jang Won-hyeok passes in front of Cheongheondang Hall of Samgunbu (Three Armies Command), the highest military authority of the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1910). The regiment shows that strength and speed are not the only forms of power, with seamless order also a formidable strength.
Strength through restraint
Cadets Heo (left) and Jang ride side by side through the KMA campus. Instead of using brute force, the regiment shows the dignity of elite officers through disciplined movements. Its unwavering composure and firm order compellingly show the high trust that the academy upholds.
From tradition to symbol
Lined up from left at Hwarang Drill Ground are horses and cadets Kim Gwan-hong (fourth year), Jang, Yeon Hyo-rin (second year) and Heo. The cavalry force that once roamed the battlefields carry on as a symbolic tradition that embodies the KMA's spirit. Though the unit's combat function has ceased, its discipline and spirit continue in different ways. The regiment participates not only in school events but also external activities to grow closer to the public in a friendly manner.
Uniting through communion
Second-year cadet Kim Tae-beom bathes a horse. Bonding with horses is the core of the regiment's activities. Instead of just riding horses, cadets build a strong bond of trust through daily care and training. A single movement is possible only when the horse senses the rider's tension and intentions and the rider reads the horse's movements.
b1614409@korea.kr