Korean War Veterans Memorial Washington DC
A solemn tribute to the 'Forgotten War,' featuring 19 statues of soldiers and a Mural Wall etched with thousands of faces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Korean War Veterans Memorial Washington DC
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn tribute to the 'Forgotten War,' featuring 19 statues of soldiers and a Mural Wall etched with thousands of faces.
"A deeply moving and respectful tribute that powerfully captures the sacrifices of Korean War veterans."
Visit at Dawn/Dusk
The memorial is beautifully lit at night, creating a powerful and reflective atmosphere. :camerawithflash:
Allow Time for Reflection
Take your time to truly absorb the details and honor the veterans. It's more than just a photo op. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Field of 38 Soldiers
Main memorial area
Nineteen statues, each representing a different branch of service, stand in a V-shaped formation, symbolizing the harsh Korean winter.
The Mural Wall
North end of the memorial
Etched with over 2,400 images of servicemen and women, this wall offers a poignant visual representation of the war's human element.
The Pool of Remembrance
Central area
A tranquil pool reflecting the sky, offering a space for quiet reflection and remembrance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Reflection
Location & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting the Australian War Memorial - only allowed 2 hrs?
Visit at Dawn/Dusk
The memorial is beautifully lit at night, creating a powerful and reflective atmosphere. :camerawithflash:
Allow Time for Reflection
Take your time to truly absorb the details and honor the veterans. It's more than just a photo op. :pray:
Combine with Other Memorials
It's located on the National Mall, so plan to see other nearby sites like the Lincoln Memorial. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit at Dawn/Dusk
The memorial is beautifully lit at night, creating a powerful and reflective atmosphere. :camerawithflash:
Allow Time for Reflection
Take your time to truly absorb the details and honor the veterans. It's more than just a photo op. :pray:
Combine with Other Memorials
It's located on the National Mall, so plan to see other nearby sites like the Lincoln Memorial. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Korean War Veterans Memorial as a deeply moving and respectful tribute to the veterans of the 'Forgotten War.' The powerful symbolism of the statues and the poignant Mural Wall are frequently highlighted as impactful elements. While the memorial is open 24/7, many recommend visiting during dawn or dusk for the most atmospheric experience.
"Excellent tribute to history and all the brave people that have given their lives for our country"
Lesley Strudwick
"I wondered why all the figures were wrapped up like Eskimos - what terrible conditions these brave men & women went through in defence of our freedom.
Our eternal indebtedness should be reflected in a deep respect and gratitude for all who serve us - Navy Air Force Army Police Peacekeepers Medical Staff - let's end all wars and learn to live in peace and consider others to be better than ourselves."
Patrick G
"The Australian National Korean War Memorial is on Anzac Parade, the principal ceremonial and memorial avenue in Canberra, the national capital city of Australia. A central walk-way leads to a semi-enclosed contemplative space. A boulder from a Korean battlefield is a focal commemorative point with the words "Peace and Independence" inscribed in Korean."
Joydip Sinha
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The memorial is located on the National Mall in Washington D.C. It's easily accessible by Metro (Smithsonian or Federal Triangle stations are closest), bus, or a pleasant walk from other D.C. attractions. Many visitors find it convenient to walk between the various memorials on the Mall.
Limited metered street parking is available on nearby streets, but it can be difficult to find, especially during peak tourist season. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Yes, biking is a great option. There are bike racks available, and the National Mall is very bike-friendly. You can also use the Capital Bikeshare program.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Korean War Veterans Memorial is free, and it is open 24 hours a day.
The memorial is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best viewing experience of the statues and etchings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend between 30 minutes to an hour at the memorial to fully appreciate its design and historical significance. Allow extra time if you wish to read the inscriptions or reflect.
Restroom facilities are typically available nearby on the National Mall, often near other major memorials. It's advisable to check the National Park Service website for the most current information on available facilities.
Yes, the memorial is designed to be accessible. Paved pathways allow for wheelchair access throughout the main areas of the memorial.
The statues represent soldiers in ponchos, depicting the harsh conditions faced during the Korean War. Each statue is a different size, symbolizing the diversity of the troops and the challenges they endured.
The Mural Wall is a polished black granite wall etched with over 2,400 images of servicemen and women, representing the faces of those who served in the Korean War. It offers a powerful visual tribute.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and fewer crowds. Evening visits are also popular for the memorial's atmospheric lighting.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography in a way that might disturb the solemn atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the memorial is a place of respect. Encourage children to be mindful of the atmosphere and to speak quietly. Combining this visit with other, more interactive memorials on the National Mall might help balance the experience for younger visitors.
📸 Photographers
Visiting in the evening allows for capturing the memorial under its atmospheric lighting, which adds a different dimension to your photographs. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful distance when composing your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Design and Symbolism
The Mural Wall, a striking black granite expanse, is etched with over 2,400 images of servicemen and women, creating a poignant visual tapestry of those who served. The wall also includes inscriptions of the total number of Americans who served in Korea and those who were killed, wounded, or are still missing in action. The overall design aims to create a space for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude for the veterans' service and sacrifice.
Visitors often remark on the emotional impact of the memorial, noting how the design effectively conveys the hardship and dedication of the soldiers. The combination of the statues, the mural, and the reflective pool creates a deeply moving experience for those who visit.
Experiencing the Memorial
The Mural Wall is another focal point, with its thousands of etched faces serving as a powerful reminder of the human cost of the war. It's a place where visitors can connect with the individual stories of service and sacrifice. The Pool of Remembrance offers a serene space for quiet contemplation, allowing visitors to process the emotions evoked by the memorial.
Many reviews highlight the importance of visiting during different times of day to experience the memorial's changing atmosphere. The evening lighting, in particular, is often cited as creating a particularly solemn and beautiful ambiance, making it a popular spot for reflection after sunset.
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