June: The Month of Patriotism
Written by Cho Namhee
Amid the mood of rapprochement that has dramatically been building up between the two Koreas since the recent inter-Korean summit in April, the month of June’s significance in Korea deserves more attention this year than ever before.
June not only hints at the coming of summer, but also brings along the spirit of patriotism to the Korean people. Coincidentally, the sixth month of the year marks the onset of conflict between the two Koreas. From National Memorial Day on the 6th and the day of the outbreak of the Korean War on the 25th (1950), to the days of the two battles of Yeonpyeong on the 15th and 29th (1999 and 2002, respectively), this is the month dedicated to those who have sacrificed for their homeland.
For this reason, Korea’s Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs has designated June as Merit Reward Month to commemorate and honor fallen heroes, and to preserve and promote the patriotic spirit of Korea’s patriots and military veterans. The thirty days of the month are equally divided into three ten-day periods – the Period of Remembrance (June 1-10), the Period of Thanks (June 11-20), and the Period of Unity and Harmony (June 21-30) – to inspire as many as possible with the ideals of the nation’s patriots and veterans.
During the Period of Remembrance, a commemoration ceremony is held at Seoul National Cemetery on the 6th and respects are paid at various memorial monuments around the country before and after National Memorial Day. The next ten days are more focused on award-giving and expressing appreciation for veterans, patriots, and their bereaved families. A great number of awards and prizes are presented to people of national merit and their families, and numerous cultural programs are held to promote the wellbeing of honorable patriots and veterans. Lastly, the month comes to an end by honoring the victims of the Korean War and individual battles, and various events are also held to enhance the public’s perception of security. Since 2005, special “Love-for-Country Tree” pins have been worn to show respect.
The month of June is also known as the month of hoguk-bohun (호국보훈), meaning “Defense of the nation and recognizing those who have defended it.” A siren goes off at 10 a.m. on June 6. It is the moment when you can pay a silent tribute to those whose sacrifices has allowed us to have the Korea that we have today.
The Author
Cho Namhee currently studies communication at Chonnam National University.