New Delhi, May 21: The Indian War Memorial has been inaugurated in South Korea. This monument commemorates the bravery, sacrifice, and humanitarian service of the Indian Army’s 60 Para Field Ambulance and the Custodian Force of India (CFI) on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Korean War.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and South Korea’s Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Kwon Oh-yul, jointly unveiled the Indian War Memorial at Imjingak Park in Seoul on Thursday. A special memoir was also released to honor the selfless sacrifices of Indian soldiers.
On this occasion, a memorandum of understanding was signed between India and South Korea. The aim is to honor the veterans of the Korean War and enhance mutual dialogue and cooperation. A special memoir was released to commemorate the sacrifices of Indian soldiers.
Notably, during the Korean War, the 60 Para Field Ambulance unit of the Indian Army treated thousands of injured soldiers and civilians under extremely challenging conditions and gunfire. This unit was commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Dr. A.G. Rangaraj, who was awarded the Mahavir Chakra for his exceptional contributions. Due to their unique bravery and humanitarian service, Indian soldiers were dubbed “Maroon Angels.”
India played a significant role even after the ceasefire in the Korean War. Under the leadership of Lieutenant General K.S. Thimayya, India chaired the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission, established in 1953 to ensure the safe return and oversight of war prisoners. The Custodian Force of India performed sensitive responsibilities with fairness, professional competence, and a humanitarian approach, earning international respect.
This is why Lieutenant General Thimayya’s leadership is still seen as a symbol of India’s positive role in peace and diplomacy. Interestingly, this memorial is located at the same site where the Custodian Force of India established “Hind Nagar” in 1954, where approximately 22,000 war prisoners were held until their peaceful return. The project was funded by India’s Ministry of Defense. On Thursday, both ministers paid floral tributes at the memorial to honor the Indian soldiers, whose services are still remembered with deep respect and gratitude in South Korea.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that India’s contribution to peace and humanitarian assistance on the Korean Peninsula is a strong foundation for the historical ties between the two nations. He emphasized that remembering the role of Indian soldiers will further strengthen the bonds between the people of India and South Korea, giving new recognition to their historical friendship.
He also expressed gratitude to the South Korean government and the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs for their cooperation in the construction of the memorial. Minister Kwon Oh-yul praised India’s role during the Korean War, describing the sacrifices and humanitarian services of Indian soldiers as a symbol of enduring friendship between the two countries.
Senior officials from India and Korea, military representatives, war veterans, members of the diplomatic community, and several distinguished guests attended the event. Lieutenant Colonel Dr. A.G. Rangaraj’s niece, Kalpana Prasad, was also present. The South Korean Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs has dedicated this month to honor Colonel Rangaraj.
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