The outbreak of hostilities in Korea created a need for "Sphinx"s repair facilities in the Far East. She was recommissioned on 3 November 1950. After outfitting and holding shakedown training, she stood out of San Diego, on 17 August 1951, and proceeded via Pearl Harbor to Japan. "Sphinx" arrived at Yokosuka, on 29 September, and operated from Japanese ports until 7 May 1952. During this time, she repaired and serviced fleet units that were being used in Korea. The ship returned to San Diego, on 4 June 1952, and operated along the California coast until redeployed to the Far East from 3 March to 9 December 1954. "Sphinx" operated along the west coast during 1955, and on 31 January 1956, was again placed out of commission, in reserve, and berthed at San Diego.