A Study on Military Uniforms of the Third Branch of the Korean Independence Army

The third branch of the Korean Independence Army (KIA) played a significant role in the independence movement. However, despite their significance in illuminating the history of Korean military uniforms, the military uniforms of the third branch have received little attention. This study explores the origins, types, designs, materials, and colors of the third branch’s uniforms through photographs, decrees, and memoirs. The first uniform was the slate-gray Chinese National Government Army uniform, though its color varied due to poor dyeing. Due to the hot climate of their stationing in Buyang, they were also seen wearing shorts and a white short-sleeved shirt. The second uniform was the U.S. military uniform, featuring a khaki cotton shirt, likely obtained during joint operations with the U.S. military. The third category, which included Japanese national uniforms, has not been referenced in prior research. Japanese national uniforms, specifically the Gap-ho and Ul-ho types, were observed. This suggests that either Koreans serving in the Japanese army deserted their posts and joined the third branch, or they used these uniforms as a disguise after infiltrating Korea. The fourth uniform, issued by the KIA, was worn by high-ranking officers. The geographical distance between the third branch’s headquarters and the General Headquarters may have resulted in logistical challenges. The findings of this research will serve as the basis for the uniforms of the independence activists. Additionally, they will assist in the authentication of KIA uniform artifacts and photographs that may be unearthed in the future, as well as the replication of KIA uniforms in the media.