75th anniversary of the United Nations Command

I had the honor to attend the 75th anniversary ceremony of the United Nations Command (UNC) on July 8, at Barker Field, UNC Headquarters in Camp Humphreys, Pyeongtaek. The invitation from Lt. Gen. Derek A. Macaulay, the UNC's deputy commander, allowed an opportunity to reflect on the command’s decades-long dedication to peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.

Amid the sweltering heat, prominent dignitaries — including diplomats, delegates of the United Nations Command, Korean military leaders and a few civilians — attended. I was touched to notice the presence of two Korean War veterans who embody the living legacy of that critical era.

One of them, retired Col. Kim Hong-su, began his military service as a student soldier and fought in the pivotal Battle of the Nakdong River in 1950. He later took part in the northward advance following the Incheon Landing and served with distinction throughout the prolonged frontline stalemate, including the Battle of Geumseong (1951–1953).

Retired Sgt. Hwang Soo-gon also joined the war as a student soldier. He provided combat service support during the Battle of Goseong, serving in the Supply Support Unit of the Armored Regiment under the Republic of Korea's Army’s Capital Division. Their presence served as a reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring legacy of those who sacrificed for South Korea's freedom.

Established on July 7, 1950, in response to the outbreak of the Korean War, the U.S.-led UNC was authorized by U.N. Security Council Resolution 84. As the first and only multinational command sanctioned by the United Nations to conduct military operations, the UNC was vital to defending South Korea and preserving the fragile peace secured by the 1953 Armistice Agreement.

We, the people of Korea, will never forget the dedication of U.S. and UNC soldiers during the Korean War. Seventy-five years ago, 22 nations answered the call with courage, sacrificing blood and treasure to protect the freedom of a people they did not know. Their noble efforts laid the foundation for Korea’s transformation into a democracy and then a global economic powerhouse.

Yet regrettably, some radical factions within certain civic organizations today seek to downplay or even erase this sacred legacy. They advocate dismantling the UNC, disregarding its historic role and ongoing contributions to peace and security on the Peninsula.

As I walked through the UNC/United States Forces Korea headquarters, I was reminded of the words etched on the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

“Freedom is not free,” and "Our nation honors her sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met.”

During the commemoration, it struck me deeply that without the selfless sacrifices of U.S. and U.N. soldiers, Korea might have been lost to communism.

I hope UNC member states will continue to strengthen their role in preserving peace on the Korean Peninsula. Korea, for its part, should uphold the UNC’s mission — not as a historical remnant, but as a living testament to the power of collective security, international solidarity and shared resolve.

Since the cessation of active hostilities, the UNC has served as the implementing body of the armistice, ensuring its continued observance and facilitating communication between the military authorities of two Koreas. Its role in deterring renewed conflict, promoting regional stability and supporting South Korea’s development has been essential.

Equally important, the UNC provides a crucial platform for multinational cooperation. Eighteen nations continue to reaffirm their dedication to peace in Korea, countering views that reduce Korean security to a bilateral issue. The global community’s ongoing interest must not be overlooked.

Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and founding director of the Korean-Swedish Association.