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South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back announces the dissolution and reorganization of the Defense Counterintelligence Command at the Ministry of National Defense briefing room in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on the 10th. / Yonhap News Agency.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back declared on the 11th that he would conduct a thorough investigation to correct the controversy surrounding the War Memorial of Korea’s use of the term "War to Resist US Aggression" (Hangmiwonjo) in an educational program.

Minister Ahn addressed the heavy criticism facing the War Memorial over the issue, stating, "I have ordered an audit regarding the War Memorial’s 'Hangmiwonjo' controversy. Let me reiterate—this is improper and wrong. This is not an issue that can be depicted through both-sidesism." He pointed out, "That such an error was not filtered out within the War Memorial during the Month of Patriots and Veterans is a grave mistake." He made it clear, saying, "As I ordered an audit immediately upon becoming aware of the incident, the Ministry of National Defense will thoroughly investigate the circumstances and correct it."

Late last month, the War Memorial of Korea Korea opened registration for a specialized commentary program titled "The Korean War: Different Interpretations." The stated purpose was to understand the war from diverse perspectives by comparing South Korean and Chinese viewpoints. However, the promotional poster for the project displayed the phrase "Korean War" against the backdrop of the South Korean flag, and "War to Resist US Aggression" against the backdrop of the Chinese flag.

"War to Resist US Aggression" means resisting American aggression and aiding North Korea, a term used by Chinese authorities to justify the intervention of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army. The program, timed for the Month of Patriots and Veterans, came under fire for appearing to introduce China's claim as an acceptable perspective.

As the controversy escalated the previous day, the association released an explanation, stating they "view the situation with gravity," but clarified, "The program was not intended to introduce or justify China’s stance. It was planned based on the historical fact and South Korean historical understanding that the Korean War began with North Korea’s illegal invasion of the South. The objective was to critically examine the propaganda logic and distorted perceptions China has maintained through the term 'Hangmiwonjo,' ensuring participants clearly understand the difference between historical facts and altered perceptions."

They added, "There were deficiencies in the creation, review, and inspection process of the promotional materials. Expressions prone to causing misunderstandings contrary to the original educational intent were identified. The relevant posts have been deleted, and the educational program will be suspended."

                                                                                                             Lee Han-sol