Veterans Minister Meka Whaitiri pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of our New Zealand veterans at the start of the Korean War commemoration

Veterans Minister Meka Whaitiri has honored the service and sacrifice of our New Zealand veterans, their families, and both countries at today’s remembrance of the start of the Korean War.

“It’s an honour to be with our Korean War veterans at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park to commemorate their service and 72 years since the start of the Korean War,” Meka Whaitiri said.

“There is no higher order than serving your country and today is a chance to remember not only their sacrifices, but those of the Korean civilians who suffered during the conflict.

“It is also a time to acknowledge the global instability caused by the war in Ukraine and New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to support the peace and security of all democratic nations.”

Following North Korea’s crossing of the 38th parallel into South Korea on June 25, 1950, the United Nations Security Council requested combat support. One of the first nations to provide military support in response to the UN Security Council’s request was New Zealand.

In addition to Minister Whaitiri’s father serving in Kayforce, which included more than 4,700 New Zealanders, 1300 sailors from the Royal New Zealand Navy also served in Korea.

“My father taught my family the importance of duty and service, something that is exemplified by our Korean War veterans who risked their lives to serve our country and help protect the people of Korea.

“New Zealand’s service in Korea underpins the warm relationship our two countries enjoy today, and 2022 represents 60 years of diplomatic relations between Republic of Korea and New Zealand,” Minister Whaitiri said.

“Some 36,000 Koreans currently live in Aotearoa New Zealand and play a vital role in our communities, including close cooperation in the fields of film, science and technology, education and Antarctica.

“The ties between our countries are deep and enduring and today’s service is a timely opportunity to reflect on the relationship founded in New Zealand’s support for Korea during their time in need.”

The Korean War continued until an armistice was reached on July 27, 1953. Until the final troops were evacuated from Korea in 1957, a scaled-back New Zealand force served as a garrison there.

33 of the 45 New Zealanders who perished in the conflict were slain in the line of duty.

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