Indian War Memorial Inaugurated in Seoul
NEW DELHI: On Thursday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and South Korea’s Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Kwon Oh-eul, officially opened the Indian war memorial at Imjingak Park in Seoul. This memorial commemorates the 75th anniversary of the Korean War.
The monument honors the significant contributions of Indian soldiers both during and after the three-year conflict. “This memorial is a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and humanitarian efforts made by the 60 Para Field Ambulance of the Indian Army and the Custodian Force of India during the war,” said Singh, who was wrapping up a two-day visit to South Korea.
The 60 Para Field Ambulance, led by Lieutenant Colonel AG Rangaraj, Maha Vir Chakra, is remembered for its outstanding service. The medical unit treated thousands of injured soldiers and civilians, even in tough situations. They played a critical role in airborne operations in Korea, deploying 627 soldiers and assisting over 222,000 patients throughout their time there.
The Korean War, fought between South Korea and North Korea with support from various allies, resulted in more than 2.5 million casualties.
Singh remarked, “India’s lasting contribution to peace and humanitarian support on the Korean Peninsula is significant. Our shared history and sacrifices create a solid foundation for the special strategic partnership between India and the Republic of Korea.”
During the inauguration, both ministers laid a wreath at the memorial, recognizing the Indian troops whose service is still honored by the South Korean people. They also signed a memorandum of understanding to foster cooperation in recognizing Korean War veterans and enhancing exchanges between the two nations.
The Korean War concluded with an armistice agreement in July 1953. India played a crucial role in the post-war phase, contributing a 5,500-member Custodian Force of India, which operated under the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission. This commission, led by Lieutenant General KS Thimayya, aimed to manage the compassionate repatriation of prisoners of war after the armistice.
The Custodian Force was recognized internationally for its professionalism and care while handling this delicate task of peace and humanitarian aid.
The newly built memorial received funding from India and is located where the Custodian Force established “Hind Nagar” in September 1954, which once housed around 22,000 prisoners of war until their safe return home.
On the previous day, India and South Korea signed several agreements to enhance cooperation in areas like defense, cybersecurity, training, and UN peacekeeping missions during discussions between Singh and his South Korean counterpart, Ahn Gyu-back. They also explored ways to strengthen collaboration in defense manufacturing, maritime security, new technologies, military exchanges, logistics, and regional stability.
