A joint South Korea-US Marine Corps infantry training exercise [Republic of Korea Marine Corps]
A joint South Korea-US Marine Corps infantry training exercise [Republic of Korea Marine Corps]

Allegations have emerged that a Marine Corps unit in Pohang, North Gyeongsang Province, forced a soldier to participate in training despite a diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis, a condition in which muscle cells break down and die. The Marine Corps said it has launched an internal investigation.

According to the soldier's side, the serviceman — identified only as Private A — lost consciousness and collapsed during a group run at a physical training session at his unit in early July.

He was diagnosed with heatstroke and rhabdomyolysis at a military hospital emergency room and received 12 days of treatment at a civilian hospital before returning to his unit. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which muscle tissue is damaged and muscle cells are destroyed, typically caused by excessive body temperature, overexertion or physical trauma.

After returning, Private A continued to experience muscle pain during work and training preparations. A military medical unit examined him and issued a written opinion recommending that he refrain from outdoor activities and training due to rhabdomyolysis.

He requested to be excused from training on that basis, but his unit allegedly pressured him to take part in a battalion-level exercise held in late July.

Private A reportedly showed symptoms of dizziness and nausea throughout the multi-day exercise, and subsequent examination confirmed significant muscle damage upon his return.

The Marine Corps acknowledged that Private A's participation in the training had in fact caused a recurrence of rhabdomyolysis.

"The unit is investigating the circumstances of the soldier's illness, the overall management of his condition, and whether his participation in training was appropriate," a Marine Corps official said. "We will take action in accordance with the law and regulations based on the findings."

The official added that the soldier is currently on leave following his recovery, and that the unit would continue working to ensure the health and well-being of all its personnel.


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