Task Force Smith Korean War: Visiting the UN’s First Battle Memorial at Jukmiryeong Hill
- Jetta Allen
- Oct 3, 2024
- 9 min read
By: Jetta Allen
Photography by: Jetta Allen, Maggie Melton, and Kelsea J. Caballero
Discovering Osan’s Jukmiryeong Peace Park: A Place of History and Reflection
While making our family’s bucket list for summer activities, the Osan Jukmiryeong Peace Park caught my attention in a local travel guide. Known as the site of the first battle of the Korean War, this memorial honors the heroic actions of Task Force Smith, part of the 24th United States Infantry Division. Living on the peninsula for over four years, we were surprised we hadn’t heard of this important place before—but once we learned about its mission and history, we knew we had to visit. This location is more than just a park, it has museums and memorials open to the public, as well as interactive exhibits and a playground. The park is located on Jukmiryeong Hill where Task Force Smith, part of the 24th United States Division, fought to hold back North Korean forces–history truly in action!!
We set out for our destination (located north of Osan) on a sunny day in July. The flags of the United Nations were waving proudly in the wind. The static display of military aircraft, vehicles, and artillery machinery excitedly welcomed visitors. The Republic of Korea’s 1947 F-86F Sabre Fighter Jet and the 1966 United States M48A2C Patton Tank caught our attention immediately. The teeth on the tank along with an unexpected number ofy wheels on the vehicle, held my fascination for quite a while. Seeing all the military equipment surrounded by the bustling city life and tall buildings was striking. While looking at the vehicles, you can see the United Nations flags surrounding a monument that set the tone for the entire complex.
The First UN Battle in Korea: Task Force Smith’s Heroic Stand
On July 5, 1950, at Jukmiryeong Hill, Task Force Smith, led by United States Lieutenant Colonel Smith, would fight the first battle between the United States and North Korea. This became the first joint operation between Korea and the United Nations.
Here history would be made and set a precedence of international cooperation on the peninsulas for years to come.
Outnumbered 10 to 1, the Korean and United Nations forces worked valiantly to protect Korea at the Jukmi Pass, trying to fend off an invasion from the north. The Allied Forces’ howitzers were of little use against the armored Soviet-made T-34 tanks operated by North Korea, and soon our forces were surrounded. Many soldiers were dead, wounded, or missing, while the North Koreans’ advance continued for weeks.
Although this battle may not be widely known, its lessons and outcomes have often been used in the decades since to inform service members of the importance of preparedness and evaluating the strengths of both sides. The members of Task Force Smith fought courageously, with unwavering vigilance, for the peace they strongly believed everyone should have. This monument honors their sacrifice, featuring soldiers whose faces reflect focused determination in holding back North Korean forces. Witnessing their sacrifice through this memorial left a lasting impact on my heart.
Wartime is painful and full of too many lives who make the ultimate sacrifice, making us realize that peace is a priceless endeavor in our world.
Honoring the Fallen: Monuments and Memorials on Jukmiryeong Hill
The New United Nations First Battle Memorial stands proudly on a hill surrounded by the United Nations flags and a beautiful garden filled with mugunghwa flowers, the national flower of South Korea. The blooming gardens evoked a sense of Korean national pride and enhanced the immense feeling of international support and respect. The 64 ft. monument is made of bronze and was completed in 1982 to honor the brave service members who lost their lives fighting for peace in Task Force Smith.
After spending time at the outdoor monuments and taking in the solemn beauty of Jukmiryeong Hill,we felt drawn inside to better understand the men behind the names. We made our way into the UN Forces First Battle Memorial Museum to learn more about the soldiers and the fierce July 5, 1950 engagement that shaped the early days of the Korean War. The Task Force Smith Korean War battle wasn’t just a distant event—it was fought by young soldiers whose stories still echo here today.
Task Force Smith Korean War Memories Preserved in the UN Forces Memorial Museum
As we explored the rest of the complex, we found the UN Forces First Battle Memorial Museum, where the story of the Task Force Smith Korean War battle comes to life through rare footage, artifacts, and personal accounts. Here, there were recordings of live footage from the battle, artifacts, weapons, and uniforms worn by the soldiers of Task Force Smith. The memorial inside honored 540 Veterans of Task Force Smith with a nameplate telling a bit about each Veteran who served. There were stories from Veterans about their time during the battle. Tears came to our eyes as we listened to the Veterans’ stories. Hearing their words made the pain and anguish feel like fresh wounds that time had not yet healed. One Veteran shared that looking upon South Korea flourishing in the present day, made the fight for peace worth it to him, reflecting that peace and prosperity sometimes come at a personal cost, one he was content to have paid.
Walking out of the Veterans Hall, our hearts were heavy but full of gratitude. The museum left us imagining the chaos and courage of that July day in 1950. Thankfully, the next part of the visit offered a different way to connect, immersive exhibits that let you step into history and experience what those soldiers faced.
Learning Through Experience: Interactive Exhibits and Family-Friendly Activities
After an emotional tour through the Veterans exhibit, we continued on to the Charles B. Smith Peace Hall, which features the journey from the beginning of the war to the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement. You can participate in an interactive exhibit with short films, a simulation of a train ride from Daejeon to Osan, visuals of wartime across the peninsula, virtual reality experiences inside a transport aircraft, and so many more educational exhibits. Each floor also has specially designed areas for small children. The cafe, kids' rooms, and experience rooms help provide play and education through creativity!
Exploring the Outdoor Memorial Park and Historic Displays
There is also a huge outdoor park behind the complex with outdoor exhibits related to the July 5, 1950 battle. Climb the observatory to look out at Hwaseong-si and Suwon-si. Play on the large playground with slides or in the gate that looks like a Douglas C-45! The Old United Nations Forces Battle Monument stands as a permanent tribute to the first battle of the Korean War, symbolizing the bravery of the 540 soldiers of Task Force Smith.
Special Events and the Smith Unit’s Fallen Soldiers Memorial Coin
At the end of our day, we were delighted to discover a special commemorative coin event honoring the Task Force Smith Korean War veterans. Each year, these coins are given as part of the Smith Unit’s Fallen Soldiers Memorial Project. Holding that heavy coin, engraved with the names and faces of Cpl. Jake W. Bailey and Sgt. Harvey N. Bailey, (both from 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment of the United States Army). It felt like holding a small piece of history—a tangible reminder of the sacrifice made on Jukmiryeong Hill during the first UN battle in Korea. The opposite side features the New and Old United Nations First Battle Memorial. We left having learned so much and with an amazing gift to help us remember all those who sacrificed their lives in the defense of freedom.
Planning Your Visit to Jukmiryeong Peace Park
It has been over 74 years since the Task Force Smith Korean War battle on Jukmiryeong Hill, but its legacy lives on. Visiting the Osan Jukmiryeong Peace Park is more than a history lesson, it’s a chance to honor sacrifice, reflect on peace, and experience one of Korea’s most significant war memorials. If you’re stationed in Korea or simply traveling through, make this stop part of your journey. Walking these grounds, reading these names, and hearing these stories is something you’ll never forget, and a visit that truly matters.
As you make your plans to go, know there is parking at the location and accessibility features such as ramps and elevators are present throughout the complex. Most of the museum exhibitions are in Hangul. The video exhibits are in English with Korean translations or in Korean with English translations. Admission is free. While the outdoor memorials are a must-see, this location also has much to see and experience indoors, so it can be enjoyed when the weather isn’t so great too.
[NAVER Map]
Osan Jungmiryeong Peace Park
경기도 오산시 외삼미동 600-1
Exploring the Battle of Osan and the Enduring Legacy of Task Force Smith
The Task Force Smith Korean War battle at Osan is a story of courage, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of war. For those wanting to dig deeper into this pivotal first engagement of the Korean War, several trusted resources provide valuable insights into the battle, its lasting lessons, and the ways it continues to be remembered today.
Osan UN Forces First Battle Memorial Hall
The City of Osan’s official memorial website offers an overview of the memorial hall dedicated to the brave soldiers who gave their lives during the first U.S. engagement of the Korean War. Visitors can learn more about the exhibits, the site’s significance, and the stories that shaped this historic battle.
U.S. Army Center of Military History
For a broader perspective on the Korean War and its early campaigns, the U.S. Army’s historical overview provides background on the events leading up to July 1950, the challenges Task Force Smith faced, and how this battle influenced later U.S. military operations on the peninsula.
The Readiness Challenge of Task Force Smith
The National Museum of the United States Army offers an in-depth article, Task Force Smith and the Problem with Readiness, analyzing what went wrong during this first battle and why it became a crucial lesson in military preparedness for generations of soldiers to follow.
75th Anniversary Commemoration
Even 75 years later, the memory of Task Force Smith Korean War heroes continues to be honored. Soldiers from Eighth Army and the 25th Infantry Division gathered in Osan to pay tribute, holding ceremonies that keep the sacrifices of July 5, 1950 alive in collective memory.
These resources allow visitors and history enthusiasts alike to reflect, learn, and gain a deeper appreciation of the Battle of Osan’s enduring legacy—a legacy that remains a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and the importance of honoring those who fought for peace on the Korean Peninsula.
Discover More About Korean War Memorials and History
If you’re interested in learning more about the Korean War, Task Force Smith, and other memorials across South Korea, these United on the RoK articles offer additional insight and perspectives:
75 Years Later: Honoring the UN Forces’ First Battle in Korea at OsanTake a closer look at the annual ceremonies and commemorations held in Osan to remember the courage and sacrifice of Task Force Smith and UN troops during the first battle of the Korean War.
The 75th Anniversary of the Korean WarReflect on 75 years of remembrance, international cooperation, and the continued efforts to honor the veterans who fought for freedom on the Korean Peninsula.
French Military Memorial in Suwon: Honoring France’s Role in the Korean WarDiscover how France’s contributions are remembered in Suwon, where a dedicated memorial pays tribute to French soldiers who fought alongside UN forces.
United Nations Involvement: Exploring Korean War Memorials Across South KoreaLearn about other memorials and monuments across the country that honor the international forces who came together to defend South Korea during the war.
Canadian Valor: Honoring Canadian Soldiers in the Korean War, 75 Years LaterExplore Canada’s role in the Korean War and the memorials dedicated to Canadian troops who fought bravely as part of the UN coalition.
These resources provide a deeper understanding of the global effort during the Korean War and the many nations who stood united for peace, leaving behind memorials that continue to educate and inspire visitors today.
Information and Sources
The UN Forces First Battle Memorial Brochure by the Osan Jukmiryeong Peace Park
Park Website: https://www.osan.go.kr/osanunm/main.do
Park Facebook: 유엔군 초전기념관: https://www.facebook.com/osanunm0705/photos
CHAPTER VI. (n.d.). https://history.army.mil/books/korea/20-2-1/Sn06.htm
McLeod, C. (2022). Lesson from the Past: Death on the Road to Osan: Task Force Smith. Infantry Magazine, Spring.
Task Force Smith The Lesson Never Learned. (n.d.). Defense Tactical Information Center. Retrieved August 26, 2024, from https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/tr/pdf/ADA381834.pdf
*The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
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