The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs announced that the "UN Forces Participation Day Ceremony" will be held tomorrow (July 27) at the KBS Hall in Yeouido, Seoul, to honor the contributions of UN veterans who served during the Korean War.

More than 1,000 people are expected to attend the ceremony, including UN veterans and their bereaved families visiting from 22 participating countries such as the United States, France, the Philippines, and Colombia, as well as Korean War veterans, diplomatic envoys from participating countries in South Korea, and the Ganglew Choir composed of descendants of Ethiopian UN veterans.

During the ceremony, the Ministry plans to present government awards to three individuals: UN veterans who made distinguished contributions during the Korean War, and contributors who have helped promote the honor of veterans and strengthen alliances.

Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Kwon Oh-eul stated, "Today's South Korea stands upon the sacrifice, dedication, and spirit of peace and solidarity of the 22 UN participating nations and approximately 1.98 million UN veteran heroes," adding, "The South Korean government will make every effort to remember and succeed this noble value and spirit."

During the Korean War, a total of 1,988,400 personnel from 22 countries served as UN forces, resulting in 40,803 killed or dead, 103,460 wounded, 3,950 missing in action, and 5,819 taken as prisoners of war.

Sixteen countries—the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Netherlands, Canada, France, New Zealand, the Philippines, Turkey, Thailand, South Africa, Greece, Belgium, Luxembourg, Ethiopia, and Colombia—dispatched combat troops, while six countries—Sweden, India, Denmark, Norway, Italy, and Germany—provided medical support.

July 27, UN Forces Participation Day, is a legal anniversary designated to honor the sacrifices and contributions of UN veterans, and it is also the day the Korean War Armistice Agreement was signed in 1953.

(Photo provided by Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Yonhap News)