Original UN Korean War Medals – French Commemorative Medal & Republic of Korea War Service Medal
Key Information:
Conflict: Korean War (1950–1953)
Countries: France & Republic of Korea (South Korea)
Decorations included:
French Commemorative Medal for UN Operations in Korea – diameter approx. 36.27 mm
Republic of Korea War Service Medal (UN issue) – diameter approx. 35.50 mm
Both with original ribbons and suspension fittings.
Medal Design:
1. France – Commemorative Medal for United Nations Operations in Korea
Obverse: Flaming torch above a laurel wreath with a central flower motif.
Reverse: Inscribed: “RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE – MÉDAILLE COMMÉMORATIVE FRANÇAISE DES OPÉRATIONS DE L’ORGANISATION DES NATIONS UNIES EN CORÉE.”
Translation: “French Commemorative Medal for United Nations Operations in Korea.”
Ribbon: Blue with white and red central stripes.
2. Republic of Korea – Korean War Service Medal (United Nations Service)
Obverse: Depicts the United Nations globe emblem surrounded by a laurel wreath.
Reverse: Korean inscription:
국제련합 (International Union / United Nations)
헌장을옹호한 (Defender of the Charter)
공훈 (Merit / Distinguished Service)
Translation: “In Commemoration of Merit in Defense of the Principles of the United Nations.”
Suspension bar inscription: 대한민국 (Daehan Minguk – “Republic of Korea”).
Ribbon: Light blue with narrow white stripes.
Condition:
Both medals show natural age wear and patina.
Ribbons retain original colors, with some light handling marks.
Pins and suspension systems intact and functional.
Very good collectible condition overall.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The French Commemorative Medal recognized the service of the French Battalion attached to the U.S. 2nd Infantry Division in Korea.
The Republic of Korea War Service Medal was awarded by South Korea to all UN troops who took part in the conflict, symbolizing the host nation’s gratitude.
These medals together represent both the international coalition (United Nations) and France’s national contribution to the Korean War effort.
Summary:
Offered here is a set of two original Korean War commemorative medals:
The French Commemorative Medal for United Nations Operations in Korea.
The Republic of Korea War Service Medal (United Nations issue).
Both medals come with original ribbons and fittings. A highly collectible pair that reflects the international nature of the Korean War and is essential for any collection of UN or Korean War militaria.