United Nations Memorial Cemetery

UN Memorial Cemetery

Graves registration service - korea

A little Korean girl places a wreath of flowers on the grave of an American soldier, while Private First Class... - NARA - 530634

Ereveld Tanggok

United Nations Memorial Cemetery

The United Nations Memorial Cemetery (UNMCK), located in Busan, South Korea, is a burial ground and memorial to the United Nations Command (UNC) soldiers who were killed during the Korean War. This cemetery is unique as it is the only United Nations cemetery in the world. It serves as a symbol of international solidarity and sacrifice, commemorating the soldiers from various countries who fought under the UN flag for the restoration of peace in the Korean peninsula.

History

The Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953, saw the participation of several countries fighting alongside South Korea against the North Korean invasion, which was supported by both the People's Republic of China and the Soviet Union. The establishment of the UNMCK was approved by the United Nations General Assembly to honor those who lost their lives during the conflict. The cemetery was officially dedicated in 1951 and has since been a site of remembrance and reflection.

Design and Features

The cemetery covers an area of approximately 35 acres and is meticulously maintained, featuring manicured lawns, flower beds, and tree-lined paths. The layout of the cemetery was designed to reflect the unity and diversity of the forces that fought during the Korean War. It includes several memorials, monuments, and facilities such as:

• The Memorial Service Hall, which houses exhibits related to the Korean War and the nations involved.
• The Wall of Remembrance, which lists the names of the UN soldiers who died during the conflict.
• The Commonwealth Monument, dedicated to the soldiers from Commonwealth countries.
• The Turkish Monument, honoring the Turkish soldiers who fought in Korea.

Interred

The cemetery is the final resting place for soldiers from 11 different countries, including Australia, Canada, France, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Republic of Korea. It symbolizes the international effort and cooperation during the Korean War, with graves and memorials that reflect the diverse nationalities of the soldiers.

Significance

The UNMCK is not only a burial ground but also a site of historical and educational importance. It serves as a reminder of the cost of war and the value of peace. The cemetery is visited by thousands of people each year, including veterans, dignitaries, and members of the public, who come to pay their respects and learn about the history of the Korean War and the international response to it.

Preservation and Legacy

The United Nations Memorial Cemetery is preserved as a sacred site, with ongoing efforts to maintain its dignity and beauty. It stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by the international community in the pursuit of peace and security. The cemetery also plays a role in fostering understanding and reconciliation, reminding future generations of the importance of unity and cooperation among nations.