UN Korean Service, Korean War Ribbons and Medals -- US Army

United Nations Service Medal for Korea

The United Nations Korean Medal was originally designated as the United Nations Service Medal but was officially renamed the United Nations Korean Medal on November 22, 1961. It was established pursuant to General Assembly Resolution 483(V) on December 12, 1950, which provided for "the design and award, under such regulations as the Secretary-General shall prescribe, of a distinguishing ribbon or other insignia for personnel which has [sic] participated in Korea in the defense of the Principles of the Charter of the United Nations."

Acceptance and wear of this medal was authorized by Public Law 83-354, which authorized the acceptance for foreign medals and decorations from June 27, 1950 through July 27, 1955, for the Korean War.

The United Nations Korean Medal was awarded for qualifying service between the inclusive dates of June 27, 1950 and July 27, 1954. There are three exceptions to this terminal date, each requested by the Governments noted: Netherlands: January 1, 1955; Thailand and Sweden, July 27, 1955.

The United Nations Korean Medal was generally awarded for any period of service while assigned as a member of the Armed Forces dispatched to Korea or adjacent areas for service on behalf of the United Nations. Service in qualifying organizations had to be certified by the United Nations Commander-in-Chief as having directly supported military operations in Korea. In the case of the United States, such certification was issued in General Orders 31 (June 20, 1955); General Orders 33 (July 11, 1955); and General Orders 36 (July 13, 1955).