What is National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day?

The Korean War, often called the “Forgotten War,” was a deadly conflict that lasted from 1950 to 1953. Over 300,000 American troops traveled to Korea during the war to bolster South Korea's defenses. Learn about the political background of the war and its consequences and why we commemorate it in the US as ‘Armistice Day.’

When is Korean War Veterans Armistice Day 2024?

Korean War Veterans Armistice Day takes place each year on July 27th. It was first formally observed in 1998, following the opening of the Korean War Veterans Memorial at the National Mall in 1995.

What is National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day?

On July 27th, 1953, negotiations concluded the end of fighting during the Korean War. Thus, the day’s name contains ‘armistice’ in reference to the document signed by delegates from both sides that described the conditions for the end of open warfare. A peace treaty was never signed, meaning the war never officially ended.

What was the Korean War?

Following the end of World War II, the USSR and the USA split Korea, which had been under Japan's control, into North and South. After failed attempts at unification, both sides formed independent governments.

The Korean War began on June 25, 1950, when North Korean troops invaded the South. In response, many United Nations nations sent reinforcements to defend South Korea, most of which came from the USA. During the conflict, China sent its own troops to assist in North Korea’s offensive. The last two years of the war were a stalemate, as neither side could successfully overtake the other.

In recognition that neither side could win, an armistice was agreed upon and signed in 1953. The armistice enabled the release of prisoners of war and established the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which still exists today.

Is National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day a Flag Flying Holiday?

Yes, Korean War Veterans Armistice Day is a flag-flying holiday in the United States. Government buildings, businesses, and individuals are encouraged to fly their American flags at full staff to honor the soldiers who bravely fought to defend South Korea. If you or a loved one served in the Korean War, you may want to additionally display the Korean War Veterans flag in honor.

The Korean War was a devastating conflict, with millions of service members and civilians killed across both sides. On July 27th this year, raise your flag in memory of all the lives that were lost and the sacrifices American troops made to defend a land that was not their own.