Commemorating the Korean War and the Armistice Agreement
27 July 2023 marks the 70th anniversary of the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement, which ended over three years of fighting on the Korean Peninsula. This important milestone will be commemorated with events in Canada and in the Republic of Korea.
We remember the Korean War
The Korean War started on 25 June 1950, when North Korean troops invaded South Korea. United Nations forces soon joined the fighting, which would rage until an armistice was signed on 27 July 1953. More than 26,000 Canadians served on land, at sea and in the air during this bitter conflict. Sadly, 516 Canadians died. Long seen as a forgotten war, the Korean War is an important chapter in Canada's military history.
Learn more about the Korean War.
Originally painted by Korean War Veteran James Keirstead, the image above shows Major George Flint of the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (2PPCLI), leading his troops up a hill ahead of the Battle of Kapyong in April 1951.
Commemorative events in Canada
To remember the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Korean War, the Government of Canada, alongside partners, will host commemorative events open to the public, in the following cities this spring and fall:
- Ottawa, Ontario – 25 June 2023 – National War Memorial
- Burnaby, British Columbia – 22 July 2023 – Ambassador of Peace Monument
- Brampton, Ontario – 27 July 2023 – Meadowvale Cemetery
- Ottawa, Ontario – 10 November 2023
We encourage you to attend and honour those who served our country!
More information will be posted as available.
You can also check out our Commemorative events page to find other public ceremonies taking place across the country.
Are you also planning a commemorative event in your community? Be sure to add it to the calendar of events!
Commemorative events in the Republic of Korea
In July, a delegation of Canadian Veterans will return to the Republic of Korea, as part of the Revisit Korea program which is run by the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs. They will participate in events to mark the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement.
The Veterans will be accompanied by a Government of Canada delegation, including the Minister of Veterans Affairs.
Follow along
Subscribe to our social media channels to see images and video from commemorative events this summer and fall.
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