The
War Memorial of Korea in Yongsan is an amazing journey through Korea’s
turbulent military past. Over the centuries the Korean peninsular has
seen it’s fair share of conflict from Japanese occupation to the Korean
War. In a country that is still technically at war, a visit to the War
Memorial feels as much a trip through Korea’s past conflicts as it is a
reminder of the fragile reality of the present day.
Designed under the advice of military experts, the War Memorial of
Korea’s six exhibition rooms contain a vast amount of information on
Korea’s past conflicts. This lots to see and absorb here, and with
English plaques explaining each event, item, statue and structure, it’s
easy to get educated about Korea’s fascinating history.
Before
even entering the actual museum itself there is an array of large
statues and military vehicles to admire. It is definitely worth having a
stroll around the museum before you enter to stand beside and in some
of these massive weapons. There is plenty of open grass and benches
scattered around too, so a day trip could also involved a picnic,
weather permitting of course.
After you have seen all the outside has to offer, take note of all
the individuals who gave their lives in recent wars from Korea and
across the globe. Their names are recorded on giant marble slates to the
side of the main entrance, an experience I found to be quite humbling.
Having lived in South Africa for the majority of my life I was surprised
to discover the number of South Africans that gave their lives during
the Korea War. There are men and women from all over the world listed
here and I found it very fascinating to learn from which countries they
all came from.
Once inside I found myself all most lost in all the splendor and
scale of it all. There was so much to see I would suggest either getting
there early or plan on coming back for a second trip in order to see it
all without rushing through.
- Christopher J. Wheeler
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