Korean YouTuber Thanks Thai Soldiers at Victory Monument

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A South Korean YouTuber known as “SSAEM Brother” has posted an emotional video after visiting Bangkok’s Victory Monument to thank Thai soldiers who fought in the Korean War more than 70 years ago. The video, shared on January 1, 2026, has drawn attention in Thailand and South Korea for highlighting historical ties between the two countries. It underscores the long-lasting impact of Thailand’s contribution to the war and the gratitude still felt by South Koreans today.

The visit took place on December 29, when the YouTuber travelled to the monument to pay tribute to Thai troops who joined the Korean War between 1950 and 1953. In the video, he introduced himself as Korean and explained that he had come specifically to express thanks to Thai soldiers who helped defend South Korea during the conflict. He said he regretted not visiting the memorial during earlier trips to Thailand and apologised for coming “much too late”.

He described the site as commemorating Thai soldiers who sacrificed their lives more than seven decades ago and said he held deep respect for all Thai soldiers. “Because of your sacrifice, South Korea can be what it is today,” he said in the video. He added, “I will never forget you. Thank you for true friendship,” and pledged to continue showing the beauty of Thailand to many people.

Victory Monument, located in central Bangkok, was originally built to honour soldiers, police officers and civilians who died during the conflict between Thailand and France in 1940. The names of those who died in that conflict were engraved at the site. Names of those who later died in World War II and the Korean War were subsequently added to the monument.

Thailand was one of 21 countries that responded to a United Nations request to send forces to assist South Korea during the Korean War. Between 1950 and 1953, Thailand sent a total of 11,786 troops to the conflict. According to records cited in the report, 136 Thai soldiers were recorded as having died during the war.

The video has reinforced public awareness of Thailand’s role in the Korean War and highlighted enduring diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations. It also reflects how individual acts of remembrance can resonate decades after historical events. The YouTuber’s message suggests that these shared memories continue to shape perceptions and relations today.

Khoasod reported that the video is likely to be shared further online, potentially encouraging renewed interest in the history commemorated at Victory Monument. It may also prompt more visitors, both Thai and foreign, to learn about Thailand’s involvement in the Korean War.

Key Takeaways

• A South Korean YouTuber visited Victory Monument on December 29 to thank Thai soldiers who fought in the Korean War.

• Thailand sent 11,786 troops to the war from 1950 to 1953, with 136 soldiers recorded as having died.

• The video highlights long-standing historical ties between Thailand and South Korea more than 70 years later.

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2026-01-02