Global Peace Academy on Cessation of War and Sharing Life Draws Large Crowd in Commemoration of Patriots and Veterans Month
June 25, 1950, marks the outbreak of the Korean War. The war brought tremendous suffering to countless people. In remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation, South Korea designates June as Patriots and Veterans Month. Every year, various events are held throughout the month to honor their spirit of dedication and service. This year, the 'Global Peace Academy on Cessation of War and Sharing Life' was organized to remember the pain caused by war and to promote the values of peace and respect for life.
This year's event, held under the theme "Connecting Cultures, Connecting Generations," brought together approximately 600 citizens from diverse backgrounds. During the ceremony, commemorative plaques were presented to express Korea's heartfelt gratitude to the nations that fought and sacrificed for the freedom and peace of the Republic of Korea during the Korean War. The most memorable part of the event was when a child representative read a "Peace Letter" expressing hopes for a peaceful world. Although most people today have never experienced war firsthand, the message served as a meaningful reminder of the importance of peace and encouraged everyone to reflect on the values we must protect and pass on to future generations.
Among the 16 countries that dispatched troops during the Korean War, Ethiopia was the only African nation to send ground forces. This shared history led to the establishment of official diplomatic relations between Korea and Ethiopia in 1963, and the two countries have since maintained a strong and friendly partnership across various fields, including the economy, culture, and transportation.
The event also featured a life-sharing initiative to honor the sacrifices of the Ethiopian Kagnew Battalion veterans who fought in the Korean War. A total of 122 soldiers from the Kagnew Battalion were either killed or wounded during the war. To commemorate their sacrifice, 122 citizens from all walks of life voluntarily participated in a blood donation campaign, symbolically matching the number of casualties.
Participants said, "We wanted to express our gratitude for the noble sacrifices of the war veterans through blood donation, an act that helps save lives. Although it is a small gesture, it is deeply meaningful to be able to convey our respect and appreciation through the sharing of life."
The event also featured a cultural performance that honored the noble spirit of those who sacrificed their lives for the nation and reflected on the value of peace. During the performance, a video documenting the blood donation campaign was shown, providing an opportunity for participants to share in the value of giving life through blood donation. While it is important to remember the sacrifices of the past, the event also encouraged participants to reflect on why we must preserve peace today and for future generations, as well as the role each of us can play in protecting it.
Branch Director Yoo Jae-hyuk said, "The spirit of honoring and remembering those who served and sacrificed for our country is the foundation of the peace we enjoy today. It is an honor to take part in this meaningful event, where we express our gratitude for the sacrifices and dedication of the Korean War veterans and join with future generations in carrying forward the values of peace and life."
The Republic of Korea is the only country in the world that remains under an armistice rather than a permanent peace treaty. The peace, freedom, and everyday life we enjoy today were built upon the sacrifices of countless individuals. We should never forget their dedication and should live with hearts full of gratitude for all they gave. It is my hope that, through even the smallest acts of kindness and sharing, we can continue to uphold the values of peace and life, creating a society that honors the past while building a better future.
Reference : https://vo.la/MbJPXHL
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