South Korean veteran Kim Jong-goo started his backpack and gear business after he spent six months serving in Afghanistan. Ashena force, the South Korean unit in Afghanistan, was stationed in Charikar, Parwan Province. The 300 strong amy contingent was sent to protect civilians along with South Korea’s provincial reconstruction team (PRT). His inspiration for the business came from the gear he used as a soldier and his experience there motivated him to donate 10 percent of the profits to an NGO that helps Afghan women become financially independent. Retired Brigadier General Choi Wan-kyu led Ashena Force’s 4th dispatch as a commanding officer. Even prior to Ashena Force’s first dispatch to Afghanistan, he had spent time in the country laying down the foundation upon which the Korean base was built upon. In total he has spent almost two years serving in Afghanistan. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES