United Nations Command Hosts Netherlands Foreign Affairs Minister During Visit to Seoul
YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea —Feb**.**11, 2026— General Xavier Brunson, Commander of United Nations Command (UNC), welcomed His Excellency David van Weel, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, to Seoul today to discuss the Netherlands’ longstanding contributions to the UNC and its vital role in preserving peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
The visit comes during the 75th anniversary of the UNC, a milestone that underscores more than seven decades of multinational commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea.
“Minister van Weel, it is an honor to welcome you to the Korean Peninsula as we mark the 75th anniversary of the UNC,” said Brunson. “This month, as we reflect on the Battle of Hoengseong in February 1951, we are reminded of the courage and sacrifice of Dutch forces who fought during one of the Korean War’s most intense and consequential engagements.”
During their discussions, Brunson and van Weel reaffirmed the Netherlands’ key role as one of the original Sending States that continue to support UNC’s mission. The Netherlands currently has three officers assigned to the command, continuing a proud tradition of service that began in 1950.
“In those desperate winter days, Dutch soldiers stood firm alongside their UN allies to halt the advance and defend the Republic of Korea,” Brunson noted. “That bond, forged in fire at Hoengseong, remains a cornerstone of the stability we defend today.”
In addition to diplomatic engagement, the Netherlands is actively supporting UNC and the broader Tri-Command through a Dutch-led Mobile Training Team in Seoul this week. The team is providing instruction in strategic communication to UNC, Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Korea personnel, an effort Brunson said strengthens interoperability and shared understanding.
“As we sustain and modernize our alliance, deterrence is a peacetime practice that requires us to show, not just tell, our commitment,” Brunson said. “The Netherlands’ continued contributions through your officers serving on the peninsula, combined training, and principled diplomatic leadership strengthen the Tri-Command framework and ensure we remain ready to defend the peace today and provide strength for tomorrow.”
“On behalf of the Netherlands, I wish to thank General Brunson and the UNC for the vital role you play in safeguarding security and stability for over seven decades. We remain committed to a peaceful and prosperous Korean Peninsula and are a proud member and contributor to the UNC. As we remember the fierce Battle at Heongseong today, we are reminded of the continued importance of international cooperation to achieve our shared goal.”
The Netherlands was one of the original nations to send forces under the United Nations flag following North Korea’s invasion of South Korea in 1950. Today, it remains a steadfast member of the UNC, upholding the armistice and advancing the shared goal of peace, security, and stability in Northeast Asia.
date: 2026-02-11 08:32:00
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