ADDIS ABABA – World Together Ethiopia has completed the full renovation of the Ethiopian-Korean War Memorial Facility, a landmark that commemorates Ethiopia’s significant contribution to the Korean War.
The upgraded site now includes a renovated monument, friendship hall, and war museum, designed to honor veterans, preserve shared history, and strengthen Ethiopia–Korea relations.
A grand ceremony was held on April 16, 2025, at the Ethiopian Korean War Veterans Memorial Park. The event was attended by dignitaries including Korean Ambassador to Ethiopia Jung Kang, veteran representatives, President of the Ethiopian Patriots Association Lij Daniel Jote Mesfin, and project leaders.
Ambassador Jung Kang praised the memorial as a powerful reminder of the long-standing relationship between the two countries. “This memorial symbolizes the enduring friendship between Ethiopia and Korea. It stands as a testament to the bravery of Ethiopian veterans who fought for peace on foreign soil,” he said. He added that today’s Korea owes a debt of gratitude to the Ethiopian soldiers who stood with them during one of the most difficult times in their history.
Seonmook Lee, Country Director of World Together Ethiopia, expressed his appreciation to Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs for its generous support. He emphasized that the renovation would strengthen the Veterans Association through tourism and education. Despite infrastructure challenges, the project was completed with commitment and collaboration. The site is now expected to play a key role in promoting diplomacy and cultural exchange between the two nations.
Colonel Estifanos Geberemeskel, President of the Korea Veterans Association, thanked the Korean government and its people for remembering Ethiopia’s sacrifices. He highlighted that the memorial, originally built in 1968 with Korean support, aims to improve the well-being of veterans and their families and to ensure their legacy is passed on to future generations.
In an interview with The Ethiopian Herald, Yidnekachew Tegegn, Project Coordinator at World Together Ethiopia, noted that the renovated facility provides multiple benefits. It educates the younger generation about Ethiopia’s role in the Korean War, offers a resource for researchers and filmmakers, and creates a source of income for the Veterans Association.
Additionally, a related project to restore the burial site of 122 Ethiopian veterans at Holy Trinity Cathedral in Addis Ababa is nearing completion.
Over the past two decades, World Together Ethiopia has implemented various impactful projects across the country. These include the LG KOICA HOPE TVET College, which since 2014 has trained over 500 students in electronics and ICT, prioritizing low-income and veteran families. More than 30 graduates have secured skilled jobs abroad in countries such as Kenya, Mauritius, Uganda, Dubai, and Djibouti.
Another major initiative, the Korean Veteran Education Development Project (KV-EDP), provides scholarships, life skills training, and livelihood support for veterans, their widows, and descendants. The organization also supports community programs such as the Child Growth Project, which distributes food and sanitary materials to reduce dropout rates and improve children’s well-being.
Out of the 6,037 Ethiopians who served in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, 60 veterans are still alive today. Fifty-five reside in Addis Ababa and other regional states, while five live abroad. Ethiopia’s Kagnew Battalion was the only African unit to fight under UN command in the Korean War, sending over 6,000 troops to the frontlines.
The restoration of the Ethiopian-Korean War Memorial is a powerful tribute to that legacy and a renewed commitment to the enduring bond between the two nations
BY MESERET BEHAILU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 3 MAY 2025
