[2] On 25 June 1950, North Korean forces invaded South Korea in an effort to unify both countries under the northern communist government.

[1] The French were thrown into the fight immediately upon arrival in theatre and particularly distinguished themselves at the battles of Wonju, Chipyong-ni and Heartbreak Ridge.

[3] Quite exceptionally, in line with the instructions contained in paragraph IV of the decree of 12 February 1952, this medal was bestowed freely with its accompanying certificate, at no cost to the recipients.

Its obverse bore on a background of sun rays radiating out from its center, the relief image of the national emblem of the Republic of South Korea on a flower-like eight lobe geometric form superimposed over a lit torch with its flame extending 7mm over the medal's upper edge and forming the suspension loop.

[1] The medal's reverse bore the relief inscription on seven lines "MÉDAILLE" "COMMÉMORATIVE" "FRANÇAISE" "DES OPÉRATIONS" "DE L'ORGANISATION" "DES NATIONS UNIES" "EN CORÉE" (English: "FRENCH COMMEMORATIVE MEDAL OF THE OPERATIONS OF THE ORGANIZATION OF THE UNITED NATIONS IN KOREA") surrounded by the relief circular inscription "RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE" (English: "FRENCH REPUBLIC").