Global Economic Times

ANZAC Day Dawn Service Held at the War Memorial of Korea: South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand Commemorate Gallipoli Battle Heroes: KO YONG-CHUL Reporter / Updated : 2025-04-26 12:24:36

[Photo provided] Kwon Myo-soon, President of the Korean Association in Canberra, Australia

On Friday, April 25th, a solemn ANZAC Day Dawn Service was held at the Peace Plaza of the War Memorial of Korea in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, commemorating Australia and New Zealand's national day of remembrance. The event was organized to honor the noble sacrifice of the soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought bravely in the fierce battle of Gallipoli during World War I, and to console the spirits of all those who dedicated themselves to their country.

ANZAC Day is designated as a public holiday in Australia and New Zealand every April 25th and is recognized not just as a memorial day but as a national day of mourning. The dawn service, in particular, holds significance as it commemorates the ANZAC troops who fought valiantly in the darkness during the Gallipoli campaign. The ceremony included a moment of silence to remember the fallen, as well as the traditional sharing of ANZAC biscuits, which were known to be enjoyed by the ANZAC soldiers during the war. Similar to Memorial Day in South Korea, it was a meaningful time to reflect on the horrors of war and express deep gratitude to the heroes who sacrificed themselves for peace.

The Dawn Service was graced by the presence of Jeff Robinson, the Australian Ambassador to South Korea; Dawn Bennet, the New Zealand Ambassador to South Korea; and Hon. Kang Jung-ai, the South Korean Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, representing the South Korean government. Also in attendance were embassy officials from various countries, descendants of war veterans, and Australian and New Zealand expatriates residing in Korea, all of whom gathered to commemorate the heroes of the Gallipoli campaign and pray for peace.

During the ceremony, attendees laid wreaths in remembrance of the noble sacrifices made. Ambassadors Jeff Robinson and Dawn Bennet jointly laid a wreath, reflecting on the strong bond of friendship between the soldiers of both nations who fought together at Gallipoli. Minister Kang Jung-ae also participated in the wreath-laying, conveying South Korea's deepest condolences.

In his memorial address, Ambassador Jeff Robinson stated, "Today, we remember the courage and sacrifice of the ANZAC soldiers who fought bravely at Gallipoli, and we express our deep gratitude for their dedication. Their spirit continues to inspire us today and will be forever recorded in the history of Australia and New Zealand."

Ambassador Dawn Bennet added, "ANZAC Day is not just a day to commemorate past wars, but an important day to reflect on the preciousness of peace and to pass on its value to future generations. Korea, Australia, and New Zealand share the pain of past wars and have forged an even stronger friendship."

Minister Kang Jung-ae remarked, "We offer our deepest respect and condolences for the noble sacrifice of the ANZAC soldiers who dedicated their youth to freedom and peace in a distant land. As a core ally sharing the values of liberal democracy with Australia and New Zealand, South Korea will continue to honor the spirit of the ANZAC soldiers and further develop the friendly and cooperative relationship between our three nations."

The Dawn Service proceeded in a solemn and reverent atmosphere, providing attendees with an opportunity to commemorate the sacrifices of the ANZAC soldiers and reaffirm the importance of world peace. The ANZAC Day Dawn Service held at the War Memorial of Korea concluded as a meaningful event that reaffirmed the historical ties between South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand and further solidified their future-oriented cooperative relationship.