CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Roughly 140,000 American troops were either wounded or killed in action as they fought for the freedom and peace of the Republic of Korea 61 years ago.
The first ever U.S. concert tour of the Korean National Military Symphony was purposefully conducted to eternally remember that fact.
The Korean War Concert Tour performed at the South Mesa Club here, Sept. 20. The audience consisted of more than 100 service members, their family members and government civilians at the first performance of the symphony’s eight-day tour.
The Ministry of National Defense founded the first full-time Military Symphony Orchestra from the gifted musicians of the Republic of Korea’s Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps in 2010, after recognizing the importance of a “high culture life standard” for soldiers and citizens.
The night began with the Korean military honor guard, followed by a heart-pounding performance of the Korea Traditional Military Band. A video presentation entitled “Korean War & Dynamic Global Korea,” which touched on the effects of the war on Korea and their bond with America, left the room in a somber atmosphere.
As the 13th largest economy, the Republic of Korea’s accomplishments have been achieved on a foundation forged by the noble sacrifices of the American people, said Kwan Jin Kim, the minister of National Defense for Republic of Korea.
The second part of the performance, “Creating Harmony & Peace; We Go Together,” was comprised of various musical works, from “Rhapsody in Blue,” with its elements of classical music and jazz-influence, to “Danzon No.2,” an energizing number full of exciting Latin rhythms.
Members of the audience said the band’s performance went above and beyond their expectations.
“I was so excited to see the orchestra perform,” said Staff Sgt. Nathan K. Johnston, a disburser with Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group. “They did an amazing job.”
Jong Hoon Bae, the artistic director and conductor of the Korean Military Symphony Orchestra, said his dream of building a bridge of peace and friendship between America and Korea, which has been made possible through this orchestra, is especially important for young men and women.
“We’re excited and proud of showing our appreciation to America,” said Bae.
His return to Korea three years ago, after a 25-year absence, caused him to realize that a lot of young men and women didn't know much about history, especially the Korean War.
"In order to make the future we have to know history and appreciate it first," said Bae.