Every year, on June 25, Korean citizens pause to remember all those who served and those who died during the Korean War. This year, 2024, makes it 71 years since the end of the Korean War (1950-1953). For Koreans, the war’s legacy is still deeply felt, with many families displaced by the fighting, displacement, and division. However, for others, particularly foreigners, the Korean War may seem like a distant, forgotten chapter in history books that doesn’t hold any significant personal memory for them. The Korean War began on 25 June 1950 when North Korean forces backed by China and the Soviet Union (Russia) invaded the Republic of Korea to reunify Korea under a communist regime. In response to this attack, the United Nations, led by the United States, intervened to support the Republic of Korea. The war resulted in significant casualties and destruction on both sides. The Korean War ended with an armistice on 27 July 1953, but both parties signed no formal peace treaty. The Korean Peninsula remains divided at the 38th parallel, with both countries existing as separate states, leading to continued tension in the region.
As a historian specializing in war history, I have a particular interest in learning about the Korean War because of the impact it had and still has on global politics and international relations. My interest in learning about the Korean War is also profoundly influenced by the historical parallels I see with the Nigerian Civil War, which took place from 1967 to 1970. Like Korea, Nigeria experienced a devastating conflict marked by intense fighting on both sides and significant loss of lives and properties. However, unlike the Korean War, which divided Korea into two separate states, the Nigerian Civil War concluded with the reunification of the Republic of Biafra into the Nigerian State. The difference in outcomes, with Nigeria achieving reunification, provides a unique perspective on conflict resolution and national cohesion that I found particularly interesting when studying the Korean War.
I am also deeply impressed that despite the devastating impact of the Korean War, the Republic of Korea has made remarkable progress over the past decades. The country has transformed from a war-torn nation into one of the world’s leading economies, known for its technological innovation, rich cultural heritage, and political stability. As a Nigerian historian, examining Korea’s progress over the years has given me a deeper insight into how post-conflict nations like Nigeria can overcome the legacies of war and conflict, rebuild their economies, and establish solid socio-political institutions. For persons interested in learning about the Korean War beyond what is available in history books, whenever you visit Korea, here are certain places you should visit to get a glimpse of Korea’s war experiences:
1. War Memorial of Korea
One of the key locations to visit to explore Korea’s military history is the War Memorial of Korea, which is situated in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Opened on June 10, 1994, on the former site of the country’s army headquarters, the museum aims to prevent war by imparting lessons from the Korean War. It houses around 33,000 artifacts, with approximately 10,000 on display across its indoor and outdoor exhibition halls. The museum features six indoor exhibition rooms and an outdoor exhibition area, including a Memorial Hall, an Exhibition of Large Military Equipment, a Korean War Room, an Exhibition Hall for Donated Artifacts, an Open-Air Exhibition Area, ROK Armed Forces Room, a War History Room, an Expeditionary Forces Room, and Commemorative Monuments.
The exhibitions showcase weapons and equipment from prehistoric to modern times and highlight notable military figures. The Memorial Hall honours and commemorates the exceptional achievements of those who served the country in wars and battles. The mascot of the War Memorial of Korea is ‘Mudori,’ featuring a helmet (symbolizing national protection) and a bay leaf (meaning peace). Overall, the War Memorial of Korea is an excellent place for history enthusiasts, especially those interested in various Korean wars. The best part is that entry is free, with foreign language guides available in English, Chinese, and Japanese.
2. UN Memorial Cemetery (Busan)
The United Nations (UN) Memorial Cemetery, located in the Nam District of Busan in the Republic of Korea, is a solemn burial ground dedicated to the United Nations Command (UNC) casualties of the Korean War. Initially, the cemetery held around 11,000 graves of soldiers and veterans from the 21 participating countries. However, after the repatriation of identified remains, approximately 2,300 graves from eleven countries remain in the cemetery. This cemetery is the only UN cemetery in the world and is designated as Site 359 in the listing of Registered Cultural Heritage Sites in Korea. Each June, flowers are offered here to honour the fallen soldiers and war veterans of the Korean War and to express a desire for a peaceful world without conflict. At the centre of the cemetery stands the UN Forces Memorial, adorned with carved doves. The Wall of Remembrance, completed in 2006, features the names of UN casualties, both killed and missing, inscribed on marble panels. Adjacent to the cemetery is the United Nations Peace Memorial Hall, which offers a comprehensive timeline of the Korean War.
3. Seoul National Cemetery
Another notable destination for paying tribute to war veterans and fallen heroes of Korea is the Seoul National Cemetery. This revered site is dedicated to Korean veterans, including those who perished during the Korean independence movement, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. It holds significant importance as a place to commemorate and honor those who fought for Korea’s independence and made sacrifices during various conflicts in the nation. Additionally, the cemetery serves as the central point for Korea’s annual Memorial Day celebrations, observed every 6th of June. Within its grounds, visitors can explore several exhibition halls and parks displaying artifacts related to these wars.
4. Imjingak Resort
Situated in Paju-si, Gyeonggi-do, just 7km from the Military Demarcation Line, Imjingak holds a pivotal place in Korean military history. It stands out as one of the most frequented areas in the DMZ and Civilian Control Zone, attracting numerous visitors annually. Established in 1972, the park was created to offer solace to those separated from their hometowns, friends, and families due to Korea’s division. Imjingak features many war-related artifacts, statues, and monuments dedicated to the Korean War. Notably, it is home to the “Freedom Bridge,” it also helps preserve the historic Imjingang rail bridge. It includes a Memorial Hall, memorial monuments, a Unification Park, and recreational areas, all serving to honour Korea’s past and promote reflection on its history.
5. The War & Women’s Human Rights Museum
To understand the impact of the Japanese War on the Korean peninsula and its repercussions for all citizens, it is important to examine the traumatic experiences of the “comfort women” and the atrocities they endured. The War and Women’s Human Rights Museum, which was opened on May 5, 2012, serves as an educational space dedicated to recounting the history of Japanese military “comfort women” and advocating for a just resolution to the issue of Japanese military sexual slavery. Additionally, the museum addresses ongoing challenges related to sexual violence in armed conflicts and stands in solidarity for a world free from war and violence against women. Paying a visit to this museum in Mapo-gu, Seoul, will offer a greater insight into the wartime experiences of women, which can help to foster deeper understanding and empathy.
Overall, visiting these locations provides a unique opportunity to delve into Korea’s war-torn past, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s growth and development over time. It also offers a deeper insight into the human cost of wars, emphasizing the need to advocate for peace and unity in all circumstances.