국가보훈부

The remains of the late William Speakman, a British war hero who fought in the Korean War to defend freedom and democracy of the Republic of Korea, will return to our nation.

The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs (Minister Pi Woo-jin) will hold the repatriation and burial ceremony of the fallen hero on February 18 and 19 in Incheon International Airport and UNMCK in Busan respectively.

President Moon Jae In of the Republic of Korea personally requested the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs to be fully prepared for the repatriation and burial ceremony of the late British war hero.

The repatriation ceremony will be attended by the Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs Pi Woo-jin, British Ambassador to Korea, and the bereaved families of late William Speakman. After the repatriation ceremony, the remains of the fallen hero will lie in state temporarily in Seoul National Cemetery and be transferred to UNMCK on February 19, where he will rest in peace eternally.

The Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs said that the ceremonies were held following the deceased hero’s will which expressed his wish to be buried in Korea, a country he fought fiercely to defend.

Late William Speakman fought in the Battle of Maryang-san and displayed exceptional bravery and courage. In the battle, he was severely injured during the battle and had to return to the UK in January 1952. However, he decided to re-participate in the Korean War 3 months after he returned home and fought until August 1952.

In 2015, the deceased hero made a warm-hearted donation of his Victoria Cross and other medals he treasured all his life to the Korean government. In July 2015, he was awarded with the 1st Grade of the Order of Military Merit from the Korean government.