The Korean War started on 25 June 1950 when Soviet-backed North Korea invaded South Korea across the 38th parallel to unify the peninsula by force. The United Nations (UN) Security Council condemned the invasion and called on member states to assist South Korea. Australia was one of the first nations to commit forces across all 3 armed services.
Royal Australian Navy (RAN) warships patrolled and bombarded coastal areas. Australian Army battalions served in major battles, including Kapyong and Maryang San. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) flew combat sorties and provided logistics, maintenance and medical evacuations from support bases in Japan.
After the July 1953 armistice, Australian personnel helped monitor the ceasefire until 1957. Over 18,000 Australians served across both periods.
Australia's Roll of Honour records 340 deaths in Korea during the war, 11 in Japan and 16 during post-armistice service. Over 1,200 personnel were wounded, 30 were taken prisoner (one died in captivity) and 43 remain missing in action.
We commemorate all who served Australia in Korea and Japan during the Korean War and post-armistice period. In defending South Korea's sovereignty, they endured the hardships of active service and the loss of many friends. We honour them through official memorials and war graves, as well as dedicated remembrance days, including Korean Veterans' Day (27 July).
