Guardians of Peace: The United Nations Command Korea and 75 Years of Multinational Partnership

Gen. Xavier T. Brunson is the Commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and United States Forces Korea, at Camp Humphreys, Republic of Korea. Photo Credit: United States Forces Korea

Gen. Xavier T. Brunson, Commander of United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and United States Forces Korea, reflects on the 75th anniversary of the United Nations Command and its enduring mission.

This year marks 75 years since the United Nations Command (UNC) was established during the Korean War. In your view, what is the most enduring aspect of the UNC’s mission and legacy? 

“The most enduring aspect of the United Nations Command’s mission is our unwavering commitment to enforcing the 1953 Armistice Agreement – the foundational framework that has maintained peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula for over seven decades. As UNC marks its 75th anniversary, its role remains vital today, as the Korean War has not ended; the Armistice represents only a cessation of hostilities. 

Created in 1950, UNC represented unprecedented global solidarity against aggression, a profound demonstration of collective resolve to defend freedom. Immense sacrifices were made to secure freedom on the peninsula, enabling South Korea’s transformation. Today, UNC is a modern platform for coalition readiness, coordinating 18 member nations through unified strategic planning. 

UNC honors the sacrifices of those who came before us by maintaining the peace, demonstrating our enduring commitment to securing the future.”

As Commander of the UNC, what does leading such a historically significant and multinational force mean to you personally, and how is multinational collaboration central to your mission? 

“Leading the United Nations Command represents a profound honor and a deeply personal commitment. I serve alongside remarkable professionals united by a common purpose and unwavering dedication to peace and security. This opportunity to command forces on the Korean Peninsula, partnered with the Republic of Korea Armed Forces, is unmatched. 

My commitment extends beyond duty – it is personal, making the safety of all families paramount. This reinforces dedication to ensuring our force maintains credibility and readiness. I view this role as a continuation of a 75-year legacy born from sacrifice. 

Multinational collaboration is central to everything we accomplish. "Under One Flag” – represents a binding principle of partnership. This collective strength far exceeds what any single nation could achieve. Through continuous dialogue with UN member states, we maintain strategic clarity and a unified approach.”