70 years of remembrance and reconciliation: The legacy of the Korean War

By Chun In-bum

On July 27, 2023, a significant milestone was reached in the Republic of Korea as the nation commemorated the 70th anniversary of the signing of the armistice agreement, a pivotal event that laid the groundwork for South Korea's extraordinary economic growth and its evolution into a thriving democracy. This occasion not only marked a celebration of peace, but also served as an opportunity for the Korean people to reflect on the immense sacrifices made during the Korean War. The contributions of 16 nations that deployed combat troops and six nations that provided vital medical support were remembered with gratitude, showcasing the true spirit of international solidarity.

The Korean War, 1950 to 1953, cast a long shadow of sorrow over the region. The statistics are both heart-wrenching and staggering: two million North Koreans and 400,000 thousand South Koreans lost their lives during this period, amounting to nearly ten percent of the entire population. Adding to this devastating toll, approximately 150,000 South Korean soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. The North Korean military and the Chinese "volunteers" also experienced grave losses, with estimates exceeding five hundred thousand casualties combined.

As the conflict engulfed the Korean Peninsula, other nations also faced the weight of casualties. The United States mourned the loss of thirty-six thousand servicemen, while the United Kingdom saw more than a thousand lives cut short. Turkey, known for its unwavering courage and discipline, saw its own losses surpassing a thousand. The profound impact of this war reverberated across the globe, as evidenced by the hundreds of families in countries such as Canada, Australia, France, Colombia, Greece, Thailand, Ethiopia, the Netherlands and the Philippines who still bear the sorrow of their fallen loved ones. The human cost, both in lives lost and families shattered, was an integral part of the high price paid for the Korean War.

Six nations, namely Sweden, India, Denmark, Norway, Italy and West Germany, extended crucial medical support to South Korean and the United Nations Forces. Their contributions ranged from setting up mobile field hospitals and sending medical professionals including doctors and nurses to providing hospital beds, equipment and ambulances. This humanitarian intervention amidst the chaos of war highlighted the power of empathy in the face of adversity.

The eventual armistice marked a turning point, but the formation of the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission (NNSC) became an important element that ensured its implementation. The NNSC's initial mission was to conduct inspections and investigations to prevent the influx of reinforcements, such as additional military personnel or new weapons, into Korea. The NNSC's role was crucial in maintaining stability. The NNSC was comprised of senior officers who were appointed by the United Nations Command (UNC) and jointly appointed by the Korean People's Army (KPA) and the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV).

Notably, Switzerland and Sweden were chosen by the UNC, while Czechoslovakia and Poland were selected by the KPA and CPV. As geopolitical dynamics shifted following the collapse of communism, the Czech and Polish components were expelled from the NNSC in the 1990s. However, Sweden and Switzerland remained steadfast, continually adapting their roles and responsibilities to bolster South Korean security and stability in Northeast Asia.

Swedish and Swiss officers stand as a testament to the enduring commitment to peace. Serving along the Military Demarcation Line, these unarmed individuals hold the distinction of being the most forward-deployed military personnel, second only to South Korean and U.S. combat forces. Their presence acts as a living tribute to the armistice. Their only reward is being allowed to witness the tranquility of the night sky unpolluted by the lights of the modern world.

Curiously, despite their dedication, the presence of Swiss and Swedish delegations have often gone unnoticed by most Koreans. Similarly, the discomfort of North Korea regarding the NNSC's presence has remained overshadowed by larger geopolitical concerns. Amid this backdrop, Poland, while participating in NNSC activities, has not maintained a continuous presence since the mid-1990s. Given the changing landscape in Europe and the deepening military relationship between Korea and Poland, the reevaluation of Poland's involvement in the NNSC becomes an intriguing prospect.

As the 70th anniversary of the Korean Armistice Agreement is celebrated, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the significance of this event. Sweden, Switzerland and Poland, through their engagement with the NNSC, have made substantial contributions to the peace process. While the NNSC's significance might be downplayed by North Korea, its role remains influential, lending credibility to the ongoing efforts toward stability. This small yet impactful organization deserves the respect, recognition, and gratitude of the Korean people, whose lives have been shaped by the lasting peace that the NNSC has helped maintain.

In conclusion, the Korean Peninsula's journey from a war-torn battleground to a haven of peace and prosperity is a testament to the resilience of nations and the unwavering human spirit. As the world marks 70 years since the armistice agreement, the sacrifices of the past must be remembered, and the efforts toward reconciliation and peace must be acknowledged. The NNSC, often overlooked, stands as an enduring symbol of international cooperation. Its role in maintaining peace, stability, and credibility deserves not only our respect but also our profound gratitude as we look toward a future marked by continued harmony and growth on the Korean Peninsula.

Chun In-bum (truechun@naver.com) served as a lieutenant general of the ROK Army and commander of Special Forces Korea.