Indian War Memorial Inaugurated in Seoul Honouring Korean War Heroes

Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s enduring contribution to peace and humanitarian assistance on the Korean Peninsula.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Republic of Korea's Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Mr Kwon Oh-eul jointly inaugurated the Indian War Memorial at Imjingak Park in Seoul on May 21, 2026, marking a significant moment in the shared history and strategic partnership between India and South Korea.

The memorial has been established as part of the commemorative events marking the 75th anniversary of the Korean War and stands as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice and humanitarian service of Indian military personnel who played a remarkable role during and after the conflict.

The newly inaugurated memorial honours the contribution of the Indian Army's 60 Para Field Ambulance unit and the Custodian Force of India (CFI), both of which earned global recognition for their professionalism, compassion and dedication during one of the most challenging periods in Korean history.

During the ceremony, both Ministers laid wreaths at the memorial and paid homage to the brave Indian soldiers whose service continues to be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by the people of the Republic of Korea.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Rajnath Singh highlighted India's enduring contribution to peace and humanitarian assistance on the Korean Peninsula. He stated that the sacrifices and service of Indian troops remain an important pillar of the strong and growing India-Republic of Korea Special Strategic Partnership.

The Raksha Mantri said the memorial serves not only as a remembrance of the past but also as a symbol of the enduring friendship and people-to-people ties between the two nations. He emphasized that commemorating the role of Indian troops helps preserve an important chapter of shared history while strengthening mutual understanding among future generations.

On behalf of the Government of India, Shri Rajnath Singh expressed appreciation to the Government of the Republic of Korea and particularly the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs for their support and cooperation in establishing the memorial.

The South Korean Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs also acknowledged India's important role during the Korean War and praised the humanitarian service and sacrifices made by Indian soldiers. He noted that the bonds forged during the conflict continue to strengthen relations between the two countries decades later.

During the event, both Ministers also signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation in honouring Korean War veterans and promoting exchanges related to remembrance and historical preservation. A memoir dedicated to the sacrifices and humanitarian contributions of Indian soldiers during the Korean War was also released on the occasion.

One of the most celebrated Indian units during the Korean War was the 60 Para Field Ambulance, commanded by Lt Col (Dr) AG Rangaraj, who was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his distinguished service. The unit became internationally respected for providing medical treatment to thousands of wounded soldiers and civilians under extremely dangerous battlefield conditions.

The compassion, bravery and medical assistance provided by the Indian unit earned them the affectionate title of "Maroon Angels" from wounded soldiers and civilians in South Korea. Their contribution is still remembered as one of the most significant humanitarian missions undertaken during the war.

India also played a vital diplomatic and humanitarian role after the armistice through the Custodian Force of India, which operated under the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC). The commission, chaired by India under the leadership of Lt Gen KS Thimayya, was responsible for overseeing the custody and repatriation of prisoners of war following the Korean Armistice Agreement signed in 1953.

The Custodian Force of India managed the sensitive repatriation process with professionalism, neutrality and compassion, earning international praise for upholding humanitarian principles during a highly tense geopolitical period.

Lt Gen KS Thimayya's leadership during the mission continues to be remembered globally as a symbol of India's constructive, peace-oriented and diplomatic role in international conflict resolution.

The Indian War Memorial has been constructed at the same location where the Custodian Force of India established "HIND NAGAR" in September 1954. The camp had housed nearly 22,000 prisoners of war before their peaceful repatriation, making the site historically significant in the context of India's humanitarian contribution to the Korean Peninsula.

The project was undertaken with financial support from the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, reflecting the country's commitment to preserving the shared legacy and enduring friendship between India and South Korea.

The commemorative ceremony was attended by senior government officials, military representatives, diplomats, veterans and distinguished guests from both countries. Ms Kalpana Prasad, niece of Lt Col (Dr) AG Rangaraj, was also present during the inauguration ceremony.

In a special gesture of recognition, the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs of South Korea has dedicated the entire month in honour of Colonel Rangaraj and the contribution of Indian forces during the Korean War.

The event served as an important initiative to revive awareness about a relatively lesser-known yet significant chapter in India-South Korea relations. It also highlighted India's longstanding commitment to peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance and international cooperation.

With the inauguration of the Indian War Memorial, Shri Rajnath Singh concluded his four-day official visit to Vietnam and South Korea aimed at strengthening defence cooperation, strategic engagement and bilateral partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.