Pyeongtaek: The chief of the U.S.-led multinational U.N. Command (UNC) emphasized the sacrifice of U.N. troops during the Korean War as the cornerstone of South Korea's development during a ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of the UNC's establishment. This commemorative event took place at Barker Field in Camp Humphreys, roughly 60 kilometers south of Seoul, and was attended by South Korean veterans who participated in the war.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ceremony was led by UNC Deputy Commander Lt. Gen. Derek Macaulay and included a flag march of the original sending states and a gun salute. Gen. Xavier Brunson, commander of the UNC, highlighted how the UNC's establishment laid the groundwork for South Korea's transformation into a modern democracy and economic powerhouse.

The UNC, founded in 1950, is tasked with maintaining peace and security on the Korean Peninsula and facilitating cooperation among allied nations. It conducts daily communications with North Korea through a unique military telephone line, known as the "pink phone," located in the Joint Security Area. Despite the ongoing communication, Macaulay did not confirm any recent contact regarding specific issues, such as a North Korean civilian crossing the DMZ last week.

Macaulay also addressed a reported investigation by the UNC into allegations that South Korea flew drones over Pyongyang last year, stating that the probe is ongoing without further details. He reflected on the evolution of the UNC's role over the decades, highlighting the need for adapting to new security challenges in the modern world.

The Korean War saw over 1.9 million service members from UNC member states, including the United States, Britain, and Australia, providing crucial support despite the war technically never ending due to the absence of a peace treaty.