National Day

National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day

Celebrated on 07/27/2026

Quick Fact

National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day commemorates the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement on July 27, 1953, which ended the active combat of the Korean War. Interestingly, the war has never officially ended because only an armistice was signed, meaning the two Koreas remain technically at war. This day is observed annually in the United States to honor the nearly 2 million American veterans who served in the conflict.

Origins and Establishment of National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day

National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day was established by President Joe Biden on July 23, 2021, through a proclamation designating July 27, 2021, as the first official observance. The holiday was created to recognize the sacrifices of Korean War veterans and to mark the 68th anniversary of the armistice. Previously, the day was informally observed by veterans' groups, but the formal designation aimed to provide national recognition similar to other military commemorations.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its official establishment, National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day has been observed annually on July 27. The day is marked by ceremonies at the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., as well as local events across the country. In 2023, the 70th anniversary of the armistice was commemorated with special events, including the unveiling of a new Wall of Remembrance at the memorial. Modern observances often include wreath-laying ceremonies, moments of silence, and educational programs to honor the 36,574 American service members who died in the war.

Facts & General Observations

  • Approximately 1.8 million American veterans served in the Korean War, with over 36,000 killed and 103,000 wounded.
  • The Korean War is often called the "Forgotten War" because it is less commemorated than World War II or the Vietnam War, despite its significant impact.
  • The armistice was signed at Panmunjom, a village in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), and the document was never signed by South Korea, which refused to participate in the agreement.

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