the korean war 1950-1953

On the 25 June, 1950, armed forces from North Korea made an unprovoked attack across the 38th parallel into South Korea, beginning a war that would last three years and claim more than 300,000 allied deaths.

In response, the fledgling United Nations authorised the international community to send a multinational force to restore peace and freedom to the Korean peninsula. Sixteen nations contributed forces to the UN effort, including Australia.

After a series of major setbacks, the UN forces regained the initiative with an audacious landing at Inchon, which led to the recapture of Seoul and the expulsion of North Korean forces from South Korean territory.

The entry of China into the conflict in November 1950 saw a series of major offensives against the UN forces, including the Battle of Kapyong in April 1951, in which Australian forces performed with exceptional skill and gallantry.

However, the Chinese offensive was not decisive and by July 1951, the war lapsed into a two year stalemate during which lengthy peace negotiations took place in the village of Panmunjom.

Those negotiations eventually resulted in a ceasefire agreement, and hostilities ended on the 27 July, 1953.

The memorial honours the military personnel of the Commonwealth of Australia and the Republic of Korea who served, suffered and died on the Korean peninsula during the years 1950-1953 in the cause of freedom, peace and justice among nations.

Their sacrifice was not in vain.

We will remember them.