U.S. troops learn about Korean War heroes at Honam Patriots Memorial Hall

(Photo by Hyemin Lee)

U.S. military community members recently visited the Honam Patriots Memorial Hall in Suncheon City as part of the ROK Cultural Immersion Program. This memorial hall, focused on the Korean War, commemorates the sacrifices and achievements of patriotic heroes from the Honam (Jeollado Province) region and also honors the U.N. forces.

Address: 17 Wonyeonhyang-gil, Suncheon-si (호남호국기념관)
Hours: 09:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Closed on Mondays. If Monday is a holiday, closed on Tuesday)
Admission: Free

Memorial Hall (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

For the participants, the visit was a meaningful opportunity to learn about the history of the Korea-U.S. alliance through the Korean War. Some participants, including family members of Korean War heroes, found the visit especially significant.

Brian Tebay, assigned to 8th Army, was among the visitors and reflected on his grandfather, who fought as an infantryman during the Korean War.

Brian Tebay (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

“My grandpa served with the First Marine Division during the Korean War, and I grew up hearing many stories about it. I am more proud of being part of a family with a Korean War veteran than anything else,” Tebay said. “I know my grandpa would love hearing about how this country has flourished if he were still here. Many U.S. service members like him probably questioned why they had to sacrifice for this country during the war. Seeing how Korea has transformed, I believe Korean War veterans are incredibly proud and grateful.”

Another participant, Chrysten Hynes with U.S. Navy Information Operations Detachment (NIOD) Korea, said her grandfather also served during the war. Hynes said that although she didn’t know much about the war before visiting, the experience has brought her “full circle.”

Chrysten Hynes (Photo by Hyemin Lee)

“My grandfather came here to help Koreans achieve freedom, and now I’m here to serve, explore, and experience all the amazing things in Korea,” Hynes said.

The Honam Patriots Memorial Hall Museum opened in 2020 and offers a comprehensive overview of the Korean War and also covers the Honam (Jeollado Province) militia who fought against Japanese rule during the Japanese occupation. On June 6, which is Memorial Day in Korea, many locals from Jeollado Province visit to commemorate the day and pay tribute to those heroes.

ROK Cultural Immersion Program, hosted by CFC, is sponsored by the Korean government to provide members of U.S. Forces Korea and United Nations Command deeper understanding of the host country while exploring South Korea.