Busan: The veterans ministry announced Tuesday that the late Jaap Constandse from the Netherlands, a veteran of the 1950-53 Korean War, will be repatriated and buried at the U.N. Memorial Cemetery this week.

According to Yonhap News Agency, a repatriation ceremony for Constandse will take place Wednesday at Incheon International Airport, located just west of Seoul, preceding the burial scheduled for Thursday. Constandse will become the 35th U.N. veteran interred at the cemetery in Busan, which is approximately 330 kilometers southeast of Seoul.

Jaap Constandse served as a platoon commander with the U.S. Army's 2nd Infantry Division from February 1952 to March 1953. He is recognized for his role in defending positions near T-Bone Ridge in northwestern Cheorwon, Gangwon Province. For his contributions, he received numerous honors from the Dutch government, including the Cross for Justice and Freedom. Following his return home, he continued his military career as the commander of the Dutch Army's Special Operations Command.

The ministry noted that the repatriation and burial are in line with Constandse's wish to be laid to rest in Busan, reflecting his pride in his participation in the Korean War and his affection for the South Korean people. Vice Veterans Minister Kang Yun-jin emphasized that the government will honor Constandse with dignity and continue efforts to preserve the legacy of U.N. soldiers and Korean War veterans for future generations.