The Korean War Veterans Memorial is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Rangers are available to answer questions and provide programs from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Korean War Veterans Memorial. It is free and open to the public 24 hours a day.
From Washington D.C., take I-395 to Independence Ave, then head southeast towards the Lincoln Memorial. Alight at Smithsonian or Federal Triangle Metro stations for a short walk to this poignant tribute.
No on-site parking. Park on West Basin Drive, Ohio Drive SW, or Tidal Basin parking lot. Metered spots, no overnight parking. No specific RV or motorcycle parking. Fees apply.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
In the heart of Washington, D.C., on the National Mall, the Korean War Veterans Memorial stands as a poignant tribute to those who served in the Korean War. Located southeast of the Lincoln Memorial and just south of the Reflecting Pool, this memorial is a must-visit for anyone seeking to honor the sacrifices of the past.
As you approach the memorial, you are greeted by 19 stainless steel statues depicting U.S. military personnel in action, set against a backdrop of a 164-foot-long mural wall. This wall, with its isosceles triangle shape, is adorned with over 2,400 photographs of soldiers, creating a powerful and immersive experience. The recent addition of the Wall of Remembrance, dedicated in 2022, lists the names of 36,574 American service members and over 7,200 Korean Augmentation to the U.S. Army personnel who lost their lives.
The landscape is stark yet evocative, with the Pool of Remembrance adding a somber beauty to the site. The memorial is open 24 hours a day, and rangers are available from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. to provide interpretive programs and answer questions. Visitors can reach the memorial via public transportation, with the DC Circulator’s National Mall route and Metrobus routes 32, 34, and 36 offering convenient access.
The memorial’s design, crafted by Cooper-Lecky Architects, is enhanced by a state-of-the-art crystal optic lighting system that illuminates the statues and mural wall at night, creating a hauntingly beautiful scene. For those seeking a deeper connection, the memorial’s kiosk houses a computer system for public access to the Honor Roll.
This memorial is not just a place of remembrance but also a living tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served. It is a site that inspires reflection and gratitude, making it an essential visit for anyone traveling to Washington, D.C.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 4 000 000
- Established year
- 1986
Top 3 Facts about Korean War Veterans Memorial
The black granite wall, 164 feet long and eight inches thick, features over 2,400 computer-enhanced photographs arranged to give a wavy appearance, simulating the mountain ranges of Korea.
Among the solemn tributes, urban wildlife thrives. Observers can spot various birds and small mammals, while caution is advised against feeding them. The surroundings are enhanced by meticulously positioned trees that reflect sunbeams off the Pool of Remembrance, creating a serene ambiance. The area’s flora, though not overly diverse, adds a touch of natural beauty to the memorial’s reflective granite walls and stainless steel statues. This blend of nature and remembrance makes for a poignant and immersive visit.
The Reflecting Pool, a serene expanse of water adjacent to the memorial, stretches 2,029 feet in length and mirrors the sky with a calm, glassy surface, creating a poignant contrast to the solemnity of the surrounding monuments.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit at dusk for a poignant experience, especially during the Cherry Blossom Festival. Use the DC Circulator or Metro to get there, and plan for a leisurely 20-minute walk. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as the terrain is mostly paved but can be warm in summer months. Limited dining options nearby, so eat before or after your visit.
Pack Appropriately
Pack comfortable walking shoes, a refillable water bottle, and a lightweight umbrella or rain poncho, considering the season’s weather. Bring a daypack with snacks, a power bank, and layers for changing temperatures.
Respect Wildlife
Respect the urban oasis: avoid litter, stay on paths, and do not feed wildlife. Maintain the serene atmosphere for all visitors.【Condé Nast Traveller】
Stay Informed
Stay hydrated, wear appropriate footwear, and be mindful of slips, trips, and falls. Check weather conditions and park rules. For emergencies, call park authorities at 202-561-7500.
Seasons
Visit in spring, when mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming trees enhance the reflective pool and granite walls. Attend the Memorial Day ceremony and wreath-laying event in May to honor veterans amidst a serene and meaningful atmosphere.[-5]
Visit in summer for warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and humid weather. July’s Commemoration Ceremony of the Korean Armistice Agreement is a must-see, honoring veterans with a poignant ceremony on July 27th. Despite the heat, the events and historical significance make it a compelling time to visit.
Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (50s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage enhance the solemn beauty. Attend the annual Veterans Day ceremony in November to honor the sacrifices of those who served. Reflect by the Pool of Remembrance, surrounded by golden light and autumn colors.
Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) when temperatures range from 24°F to 47°F. Snow-covered statues and a serene Pool of Remembrance create a poignant, tranquil atmosphere, ideal for reflection and solitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Korean War Veterans Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in Washington, D.C. to visit this memorial, which is located in West Potomac Park, southeast of the Lincoln Memorial and just south of the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall.
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Dogs are not allowed at this memorial. However, they are permitted in other areas of the National Mall as long as they are on a leash. Service animals are an exception and are allowed everywhere.
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You can park along Ohio Drive, west of the MLK Memorial and south of the Lincoln Memorial, or behind the Jefferson Memorial in parking lots A, B, and C. These spots are metered and have time limits. There are also commercial parking facilities like the Watergate Garage and Statesman Garage that you can book in advance.
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The memorial features 19 stainless steel statues by Frank Gaylord depicting a patrol, a Mural Wall with over 2,400 photographs of Korean War service members, a Pool of Remembrance listing casualties, a United Nations Wall honoring 22 contributing countries, and a granite wall with the inscription Freedom Is Not Free. The statues, when reflected on the granite wall, appear as 38 soldiers, symbolizing the 38th parallel. The site also includes a circular pool surrounded by linden trees and benches for reflection.