Children visiting The War Memorial of Korea in Seoul, June 5, 2025. (Image credit: KOCIS - Korea.net, photographer Lee jeong woo/CC BY-SA 2.0 https://flic.kr/p/2r93Jqu)
Memorial Day in the Republic of Korea, known as 현충일 (Hyeonchungil), is observed annually on June 6 in remembrance of the soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives during the Korean War (1950-1953). Established as a public holiday in 1956, the day features a national ceremony at Seoul National Cemetery, attended by the President and other officials. At 10 a.m., a siren signals a nationwide moment of silence. The Taegukgi (national flag) is flown at half-staff, and citizens participate in various commemorative activities. They all highlight Korea’s deep cultural emphasis on honoring ancestors.
Photos of Korean War veterans on display at The War Memorial of Korea in Seoul, June 23, 2015. (Image credit: KOCIS - Korea.net, photographer Jeon Han/CC BY-SA 2.0 https://flic.kr/p/uLL79B)
The day also pays tribute to international forces who stood with the Republic of Korea. Among the most symbolic examples of this shared history is the Battle of Gapyeong, also known as the Battle of Kapyong. This took place from April 22–25, 1951 during the Korean War. Located in a mountainous region of Gyeonggi-do, the town of Gapyeong became a critical line of defense during a large-scale Chinese offensive. As forces pushed south in an attempt to recapture Seoul, UN troops from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States were deployed to hold the line.
In the face of overwhelming circumstances, these international troops held their ground under immense pressure. The 3rd Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR) and Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) fought valiantly, often at close quarters, with limited supplies and without full air support. Their courage and determination helped stop the Chinese advance, protecting not only the strategic highlands but also countless civilian lives in the Seoul region. The 213th Battalion of the Utah National Guard was at first to be deployed to Germany in Europe but later the decision was made to have them head to Korea. The battalion killed or captured a large number of Chinese troops, which led them to a victory.
The Korean War Memorial of US Army in Gapyeong-gun, May 26, 2025. (Image credit: Jini Kim, used with permission)
The term “Miracle at Gapyeong” reflects how a small but determined group of UN troops, vastly outnumbered and surrounded, operated with limited supplies, air support, and rest. Their heroic stand halted the Chinese advance toward Seoul, prevented further civilian casualties, and achieved what many believed to be nearly impossible.
On May 26, 2025, a ceremony was held to mark the 74th anniversary of the Battle of Gapyeong at the memorial monument located on private property at Buk-myeon, Gapyeong-gun. Over 300 people attended the event honoring the courage and sacrifices of the war veterans. The ceremony featured remarks from government officials, local leaders, international guests and descendants of veterans. Among them were the mayors of Cedar City, Utah and Gapyeong who spoke about how the monument is a symbol of friendship between two allied nations for generations to come. Notable speaker Keaton Daly, currently serving as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, spoke of his great grandfather, Lieutenant Colonel Frank Daly who led the troops to a miraculous victory. In tribute, the ceremony concluded with a wreath-laying, followed by individuals who placed a single flower in front of the monument.
Paying tribute in front of the monument in Gapyeong-gun, May 26, 2025. (Image credit: Jini Kim, used with permission)
Today, the town of Gapyeong bears witness to this shared history. Memorial parks and monuments honor the nations that fought there. Similar memorials are located in Canada, Australia and the United States that serving as sites of remembrance for veterans, diplomats, and citizens from Korea and abroad. Commemorative ceremonies, often held on Memorial Day, reflect the lasting gratitude of the Korean people.
The story of Gapyeong is more than military history, it is a reminder that freedom was earned. While Korea’s rapid modernization and global influence are often celebrated today, the foundations of its peace were built by those who stood their ground in battles like Gapyeong.
As we reflect this Hyeonchungil, we remember not only Korea’s fallen heroes, but also the international brothers-in-arms who believed in defending Korea. In honoring them, we honor a shared commitment to peace, freedom, and remembrance for generations to come.
SOURCE:
https://www.90daykorean.com/memorial-day-in-korea/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HDmUDryuGo
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