Phanom Sukprasoet
Bio
Phanom Sukprasoet joined the Thai Army in 1950 after nearly a decade of freelance agricultural work. He knew little of Korea until his arrival. He spent much of his time in Korea working in the medical center. He is a very proud Korean War Veteran who revisited Korea for the 70th Anniversary commemoration. He is impressed with the country’s development.
Video Clips
First Impressions
Phanom Sukprasoet arrived in Korean in 1950 as part of the first rotation of the Thai Army. He recalls Busan being totally destroyed. While the cities were devastated, he noted that in the rural areas there were houses still standing but only a few elderly people. He recalls thinking that war should not have happened because cities were destroyed and many people died.
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Korean Children
Phanom Sukprasoet recalls many small children in the streets of the city. Most were extremely poor and starving. In fact, he recalls children eating out of garbage bins. He notes that as he passed these children begging for food he often gave them whatever he had.
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Almost Going Crazy
Phanom Sukprasoet recalls much of his time in country as being terrifying. He felt as if he was going crazy from all the bombing and cannons going off. He describes the freezing weather which made it hurt to touch any metal. Despite all of this, he states he does not regret serving in Korea.
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Didn't Recognize Where He Was
Phanom Sukprasoet shares his return trip to Korea to mark the 70th Anniversary commemoration. He notes that he did not recognize where he was while traveling between Incheon and Seoul. He expresses amazement in the development of Korea, especially the cities which he states are bigger and more developed than Bangkok. He expresses pride in his role in the Korean War.
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