Why freedom is never free

With artistically displayed artefacts and visually exciting interactive presentations, the War Memorial of Korea in central Seoul offers visitors a thorough understanding of Korea’s war history from past to present. 

Last month, the Memorial hosted a commemorative ceremony to mark the 60th anniversary of the signing of the armistice agreement.

Among the 21 countries that fought under the UN Flag was Thailand, who sent 6,326 troops, of which 130 were killed in action and 1,130 were wounded. 

Veteran Colonel Tongratch Yoopool was 23 when he joined the war in 1950, “I volunteered because I wanted to help South Korea from being invaded. I was not afraid at all. Should South Korea ask for help again, even though I am in my 80s, I am ready. I am a soldier and will serve in the name of Thailand.”

Former PM General Kriangsak Chomanan also participated in the Korean War as a Commander of Infantry Battalion III, which later gained fame for its tactics and bravery at the Pork Chop Hill battle, in which the Battalion fought against two Chinese regiments northwest of Yeoncheon. The Thais suffered slight casualties, but inflicted heavy damages to the Chinese forces, earning them the nickname “Little Tigers” for their valour.  

The names of all Thai soldiers killed, along with those of other UN forces, are engraved on the walls alongside the grand exterior passage of the War Memorial.

During the ceremony, Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Park Sung Choon expressed his gratitude, “We are very thankful for their support during the Korean War and the people of Korea will never forget what the UN allies have done for Korea. For Thailand, so many troops have fought and they’ve made a lot of sacrifices. As a country in Asia to a friend in Asia, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Thai government.”