Korean War Museum

I have been to several war museums over the years. Korea has two war museums. The first is the official Korean War museum in Seoul near the old US Army Headquarters. I first visited in 2000 shortly after it opened and recently visited it again. The exhibits are first class.

Co-pilot provided the following background information

The War Memorial of Korea, located in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, is a comprehensive museum dedicated to the history of Korea’s military conflicts, with a significant focus on the Korean War (1950-1953). Here are some key highlights:

The War Memorial of Korea is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Mondays. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in military history and the impact of the Korean

on the country’s development ³.

I have also been to the Korean War Memorial in Washington DC several times.

Sent by Copilot:

Certainly! The Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., stands as a solemn tribute to those who served during the Korean War (1950–1953). Here are some key details:

Location: The memorial is situated in West Potomac Park, southeast of the Lincoln Memorial and just south of the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall¹ ². If you find yourself strolling through the area, it’s hard to miss—its design and symbolism make it a powerful presence.
Purpose and Symbolism:
- The memorial’s central theme is “Freedom Is Not Free.” It honors the men and women who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met.
- The design includes a Wall of Remembrance with etched images of soldiers, nurses, and other personnel who served during the war. The wall reflects the somber reality of sacrifice.
- Stainless steel statues of 19 soldiers—representing a squad on patrol—stand in formation. These statues evoke a sense of duty, camaraderie, and the harsh conditions faced by those who fought.
- The Pool of Remembrance reflects the soldiers and their surroundings, creating a contemplative space for visitors.
Visiting the Memorial:
- The Korean War Veterans Memorial is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Whether you visit during the day or at night, the experience is moving.
- Take your time to walk among the statues, read the inscriptions, and reflect on the sacrifices made during this often-called “Forgotten War.”
- It’s a place to honor not only the American service members but also the 5.8 million people who served in the U.S. armed forces during the three-year period of the Korean War ³.