Gary Routh
Bio
Video Clips
Listening in on North Korea
Gary Routh describes his job listening to North Korean soldiers on the radio in the 1990s. Occasionally, he would hear artillery practice or excitement on the other end, but most of the time, the job was monotonous. He explains that spying often involved hearing the same phrases from North Korean soldiers day after day.
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American G.I.s and the KATUSA
Gary Routh reflects on his interactions with the KATUSA stationed alongside American G.I.s. He explains how American forces often found Korean customs, like bathing each other or eating ramen while sitting on the floor, to be unusual. Similarly, he notes that the Koreans viewed the Americans as strange, particularly due to the loud and harsh nature of U.S. soldiers.
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Like Living in a Ghetto
Gary Routh describes life in the barracks while stationed in Korea, noting that the conditions were rough and the buildings were deteriorating. He explains that, while he could easily hang out with friends at any time, most of the experience felt like living in a ghetto. The lack of comfort and maintenance made everyday life challenging.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2Nya6I7h94&start=577&end=818
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https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/gary-routh#clip-3
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