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Updated May 20, 2026 · 07:05
India News Updated May 20, 2026

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute at Seoul National Cemetery

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Seoul National Cemetery and paid tribute to fallen soldiers, especially those from the Korean War. He laid floral tributes and observed a moment of silence at the memorial site. The visit is part of his two-nation tour from May 18-21, aimed at strengthening defence and strategic ties with Vietnam and South Korea. Singh emphasized deepening military cooperation, defence industrial partnerships, and maritime collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pays tribute at South Korea's Seoul National Cemetery

Seoul, May 20

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday visited the Seoul National Cemetery and paid tribute to the fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation, particularly during the Korean War.

Rajnath Singh laid floral tributes at the national memorial site and observed a moment of silence in honour of the people who gave their lives for the nation.

The Seoul National Cemetery commemorates South Korean servicemen and women who laid down their lives in defence of the country and stands as a symbol of national remembrance and sacrifice.

The visit comes as part of Rajnath Singh's South Korea visit aimed at further strengthening bilateral defence and strategic cooperation between the two countries.

Rajnath Singh arrived in South Korea on Tuesday, kicking off the second leg of a two-nation tour that spans from May 18 to May 21.

Upon his arrival, the Defence Minister was received by the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Korea, Gourangalal Das, along with senior officials, setting the stage for high-level engagements in Seoul.

The Defence Minister's itinerary included an official visit to Vietnam on May 18 and 19 before he travelled to South Korea for the second leg of his journey from May 19 to May 21. The multi-nation trip is aimed at bolstering regional security ties and advancing security dynamics.

Detailing his objectives for the tour, the Defence Minister took to X on Monday, stating: "I will focus on deepening strategic military cooperation, strengthening defence industrial partnerships, and boosting maritime collaboration, promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region."

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

It's heartwarming to see cross-cultural respect for martyrs. The Korean War was a significant chapter in world history, and India's tribute shows our commitment to peace and shared values. However, I hope this visit also translates into concrete defense partnerships, not just ceremonial gestures. Action speaks louder than words, ji.

Vikram M

Good to see our leaders acknowledging global sacrifices, but let's not forget our own soldiers who have given everything for India's security. When will we see similar tributes to our jawans at war memorials back home? The optics look nice, but I want to know the substance behind these defence visits.

Rohit P

This is a classy move by Rajnath Singh. Korea and India have been cooperating on defence technology, and visiting the cemetery shows we value their history. The Indo-Pacific region needs strong partners, and South Korea is a natural ally for us. Hope we ink some solid deals this trip! 🚀

Meera T

While it's nice to see diplomatic gestures, I wish our defence budget was more focused on modernising our own forces rather than just photo ops abroad. The Korean War was tragic, but India's own border challenges need more attention. Let's not lose sight of our priorities, please.

Siddharth J

Amazing to see India engaging with East Asian nations on defence! Vietnam and then South Korea—this is a strategic masterstroke. The Korean War veterans deserve all the respect, and our Defence Minister representing India there is a big deal. Looking forward to stronger India-Korea ties in defence manufacturing. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳

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