What Is the New Foundation Honoring UN Forces in the Korean War?
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Synopsis
A newly established foundation in Seoul is set to honor the brave UN forces who fought for South Korea during the Korean War. This initiative includes a memorial wall and sculptures dedicated to veterans from 16 countries. Join us as we celebrate their sacrifice and remember the ongoing impact of this historic conflict.
Key Takeaways
- A foundation has been launched in Seoul to honor UN forces of the Korean War.
- The first project includes a memorial wall for 40,000 soldiers.
- Plans for sculptures representing 16 countries involved in the war are underway.
- A commemorative park is also envisioned to enhance public access.
- Annual ceremonies will continue to honor the sacrifices made during the conflict.
Seoul, Nov 12 (NationPress) A new foundation was inaugurated on Wednesday to pay tribute to the thousands of United Nations forces who fought valiantly for South Korea during the 1950-53 Korean War, with a ceremony taking place in Seoul.
As its inaugural project, the foundation aims to construct a memorial wall that will display the names of approximately 40,000 UN forces who participated in this civil conflict, relying on contributions from governmental, corporate, and individual supporters.
Additionally, plans are underway to create sculptures representing combat troops from 16 nations involved, along with six units from the US military, collectively titled, "UN forces on Korean battlefields," as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The foundation also envisions establishing a commemorative park in central Seoul to improve public accessibility.
It is important to note that the Korean War concluded with a truce rather than a peace treaty, leaving the two Koreas in a state of technical war. The conflict resulted in the deaths of nearly 180,000 South Korean and UN Command troops, including 36,940 Americans.
Combat support was provided by 16 countries on South Korea's side, including Canada, France, New Zealand, Turkey, Thailand, and Ethiopia.
On November 7, the veterans ministry announced that South Korea will host an annual ceremony next week to honor the UN forces who participated in the Korean War.
The UN Veterans International Memorial Day is set to take place at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Busan, located approximately 330 kilometers southeast of Seoul, on Tuesday, as per the ministry's announcement.
This gathering will see the attendance of 80 war veterans from 14 countries, including the United States, Britain, Colombia, Turkey, and Belgium, along with their surviving family members.
The oldest veteran expected to attend is Luis A Garcia Velandia from Colombia, who is 100 years old and fought in the battle of Old Baldy alongside South Korean and US forces against Chinese troops in June 1952.
During their visit, scheduled from Saturday to Thursday, the veterans will also pay their respects at the war memorial in Seoul on Sunday.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the historical significance of this foundation. The commemoration of UN forces who fought in the Korean War not only honors their sacrifices but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing impact of the conflict. This initiative fosters a sense of unity and gratitude within our nation, highlighting the importance of remembering those who served.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the newly launched foundation?
The foundation aims to honor the thousands of UN forces who fought for South Korea during the Korean War, including plans for a memorial wall and sculptures.
When will the annual UN Veterans International Memorial Day take place?
The UN Veterans International Memorial Day will be held on Tuesday at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Busan.
How many countries provided troops during the Korean War?
A total of 16 countries provided combat troops to support South Korea during the Korean War.
Who is the oldest veteran attending the ceremony?
The oldest veteran participating is Luis A Garcia Velandia from Colombia, who is 100 years old.
What is planned for the memorial wall?
The memorial wall will display the names of approximately 40,000 UN forces who served in the Korean War.
