Defence minister Rajnath Singh and minister of patriots & veterans affairs, Republic of Korea (RoK) Kwon Oh-eul jointly inaugurated the Indian War Memorial at Imjingak Park, Seoul on 21 May 2026. Constructed as part of the commemorative events marking the 75th anniversary of the Korean War, the memorial stands as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice and humanitarian service rendered by the 60 Para Field Ambulance of the Indian Army and the Custodian Force of India (CFI) during the war.

The two ministers laid a wreath at the memorial and paid homage to the brave Indian personnel whose service continues to be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by the people of the Republic of Korea.

In his remarks, Singh highlighted the enduring legacy of India’s contribution to peace and humanitarian assistance on the Korean Peninsula. He noted that the shared history and sacrifices of the two nations continue to serve as a strong foundation for the India-Republic of Korea Special Strategic Partnership.

Singh added that commemorating the role of Indian troops helps strengthen people-to-people understanding and brings renewed attention to the historic bonds between the two countries. On behalf of the government of India, he extended deep appreciation to the government of the Republic of Korea, particularly the ministry of patriots and veterans affairs, for their valuable support and cooperation in the establishment of the memorial.

The minister of patriots and veterans affairs of the Republic of Korea expressed deep appreciation for India’s role during the Korean War. He acknowledged the lasting bonds of friendship forged through the sacrifices and humanitarian service of Indian troops.

An MoU was signed by the two ministers aimed at cooperation for honouring the veterans of the Korean war and strengthening exchanges between them. A memoir was also released in remembrance of the selfless sacrifice of the soldiers.

The 60 Para Field Ambulance, commanded by Lt Col (Dr) AG Rangaraj, Maha Vir Chakra, earned widespread recognition for its exemplary medical service and dedication in treating thousands of wounded soldiers and civilians under extremely challenging conditions of crossfire. Their unmatched bravery and humanitarian approach earned them the title of ‘Maroon Angels’, given to them by the wounded soldiers and civilian population of RoK.

India also played a pivotal role in the post-armistice phase of the Korean War through CFI, which was entrusted with the responsibilities under the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC). The NNRC, chaired by India under the leadership of Lt Gen KS Thimayya, was established to facilitate the humane repatriation and custody of prisoners of war following the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953.

The CFI carried out this sensitive and complex responsibility with professionalism, impartiality & compassion, earning international recognition for its contribution to peace, reconciliation and humanitarian principles on the Korean Peninsula. Lt Gen Thimayya’s distinguished leadership and diplomatic acumen remain an enduring symbol of India’s constructive and peace-oriented role during the Korean War.

The Indian War Memorial has been constructed in the same area where the CFI had established the ‘HIND NAGAR’ in September 1954, housing almost 22,000 prisoners of war till their peaceful repatriation. The project has been undertaken with funding support from the ministry of defence, government of India, reflecting India’s deep respect for the shared history and enduring friendship between the two countries.

The ceremony was attended by senior officials from both countries, military representatives, veterans, members of the diplomatic community and distinguished guests. Kalpana Prasad, niece of Lt Col (Dr) AG Rangaraj, was also present on the occasion. The ministry of patriots and veterans affairs of Korea has dedicated this month in the honour of Colonel Rangaraj.

The commemoration served as an important effort to revive and honour a significant yet relatively lesser-known chapter of shared India-Republic of Korea history. The contributions of Indian personnel during the Korean War remain a powerful symbol of India’s long-standing commitment to peace, humanitarian assistance and international cooperation. With the inauguration of the Indian War Memorial, the defence minister has concluded his four-day visit to Vietnam and South Korea.