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Ethiopia's Kagnew Choir visits Korean War Veterans Tribute Photo Exhibition
2026.06.29
Visit by Kagnew Choir, composed of descendants of Ethiopian Korean War veterans, to the Korean War Veterans Tribute Photo Exhibition at the War Memorial of Korea
On June 30, the Kagnew Choir, made up of descendants of Ethiopian veterans who fought in the Korean War, visited the War Memorial of Korea in Seoul. The members laid flowers at the Monuments for the Participating Nations of the Korean War and toured the Korean War Veterans Tribute Photo Exhibition, currently on view at the War Memorial.
Organized by LIG Defense & Aerospace (LIG D&A) to commemorate its 50th anniversary, the exhibition features compelling tribute photos vividly capturing the dignity and spirit of Korean War veterans from participating nations through the lenses of photographers Rami, founder of Project Soldier, and Shin Junghwan.
During their tour, the 35 choir members stopped in front of a photograph of Ethiopian veteran Assefa Demissie, taking time to reflect on the extraordinary legacy of the Kagnew Battalion, which achieved the legendary record of 253 victories in 253 engagements during the war, and to honor the unit’s unwavering dedication and sacrifice.
This visit carried special significance for seven-year-old choir member Nehaset Tariku, the granddaughter of Assefa Demissie, as she spent a meaningful moment looking at her grandfather's portrait. After viewing the exhibition, 13-year-old Elda Yosef said, “As the saying goes, freedom is not free. I felt a deep sense of pride in Korea's growth and development, which was built upon the sacrifices of veterans from around the world, including Ethiopia.” She also added, “I am deeply grateful to the people of Korea and LIG D&A for creating this place of remembrance and honoring their sacrifices, even after all these years.”