"Peace Begins with Remembrance": Honoring Sacrifice Across Faiths and Generations

As June—the Month of Patriots and Veterans in Korea—unfolded with intense summer heat, a quiet yet powerful moment of unity and reflection took place at the Seoul National Cemetery. On June 12, representatives from religious and cultural communities, war veterans, and peace activists came together to pay their respects at the Memorial Tower, reminding us all that peace is built on the foundation of memory.

A Tribute Beyond Boundaries

Organized by HWPL’s Global 07 Branch and co-hosted by the “Donghaeng Campaign – Connecting the Nation,” the memorial event brought together over 60 people from all walks of life. Despite temperatures soaring above 30°C, they stood side by side in silence and reverence, honoring the fallen heroes who gave their youth and lives for their country.

The ceremony included an orientation about the cemetery grounds, followed by solemn incense offerings and a moment of silence. Religious leaders from Buddhist, Korean traditional, and Christian communities each offered eulogies in their own traditions, expressing gratitude, hope, and a shared longing for lasting peace.

Generations United in Honor

One especially moving scene came as young participants held umbrellas over elderly veterans, walking and talking with them through the cemetery. It was a quiet act of service that spoke volumes about bridging generations through shared respect and remembrance.

Kang Dae-bong, head of the Korean Confucian Federation, shared,

“There are only a few of us left who fought at the Nakdong River during the Korean War. It saddens me that younger generations are slowly forgetting this history. I am thankful that events like this keep the memory alive.”

Lee Seung-joo, Honorary Director of HWPL G07, emphasized,

“The heroes resting here gave their blood and youth for peace. If we remember their sacrifice and come together with sincerity, we can build a better Korea.”

 

A Living Memory, A Living Peace

More than just a memorial, this gathering was a call to action. It reminded every participant that remembrance is not passive. Remembering is how we carry peace forward. Through consistent events like this, HWPL and its partners hope to keep the lessons of history alive—not just in memory, but in action.

One parent who attended with their child said,

“It was a valuable time to teach my child the meaning of peace. We’ll come again next year.”

In the quiet stillness of the Memorial Tower, the message of peace was not shouted—but lived, remembered, and passed on.

Source: https://vo.la/VNLEJtA