Seoul, May 21: Defence ties and historical bonds between India and South Korea received a significant tribute as Rajnath Singh and Kwon Oh-eul jointly inaugurated the Indian War Memorial at Imjingak Park in Seoul on Wednesday.
The memorial has been established as part of the commemorations marking the 75th anniversary of the Korean War and stands as a symbol of the courage, sacrifice, and humanitarian service rendered by Indian troops during one of the most devastating conflicts of the 20th century.
The memorial particularly honours the legendary 60 Para Field Ambulance unit of the Indian Army and the Custodian Force of India (CFI), both of which played crucial humanitarian and peacekeeping roles during and after the Korean War.
The two ministers laid wreaths at the memorial and paid homage to the Indian soldiers whose contributions continue to be remembered with deep respect in the Republic of Korea.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s long-standing commitment to peace, humanitarian assistance, and international cooperation. He said the sacrifices made by Indian troops on the Korean Peninsula continue to strengthen the foundation of the India–South Korea Special Strategic Partnership.
The Defence Minister noted that remembering the role of Indian soldiers not only honours history but also deepens people-to-people ties between the two nations. He thanked the South Korean government and its Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs for supporting the construction of the memorial.
South Korea’s Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Kwon Oh-eul, praised India’s contribution during the Korean War and acknowledged the enduring friendship forged through the bravery and compassion of Indian troops.
During the event, both sides also signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing cooperation in honouring Korean War veterans and promoting exchanges between veterans of both countries. A special memoir commemorating the sacrifices of Indian soldiers was also released.
One of the most celebrated chapters of India’s contribution during the Korean War was the role of the 60 Para Field Ambulance unit, commanded by Lt Col (Dr) AG Rangaraj, Maha Vir Chakra. Operating under extreme battlefield conditions, the unit treated thousands of wounded soldiers and civilians with exceptional dedication and humanitarian spirit.
Their courage and medical service earned them the affectionate title of “Maroon Angels” from the people and wounded soldiers of South Korea.
India also played a major diplomatic and peacekeeping role after the armistice through the Custodian Force of India under the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC), chaired by Lt Gen KS Thimayya. The commission was tasked with overseeing the humane repatriation and custody of prisoners of war after the Korean Armistice Agreement of 1953.
The Indian force established “HIND NAGAR” in September 1954 in the same region where the memorial now stands. The facility reportedly housed nearly 22,000 prisoners of war until their peaceful repatriation.
Officials said the memorial project was funded by India’s Ministry of Defence as a tribute to the shared history and enduring friendship between India and South Korea.
The ceremony witnessed the presence of senior government officials, military representatives, diplomats, veterans, and distinguished guests from both countries. Among those attending was Ms Kalpana Prasad, niece of Lt Col AG Rangaraj. South Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs has also dedicated the current month in honour of Colonel Rangaraj and his service.
With the inauguration of the Indian War Memorial, Rajnath Singh concluded his four-day diplomatic and defence visit to Vietnam and South Korea.
Copyright: IBG NEWS
