WASHINGTON –
The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency and the Republic of Korea Ministry of National Defense Agency for KIA Recovery and Identification, MAKRI, signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Arlington, Virginia, Aug. 6, solidifying their commitment to recovering and identifying remains of service members missing from the Korean War.
The signing ceremony, held at DPAA’s headquarters, marks a significant step forward in the long-standing partnership between the United States and South Korea in accounting for those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Korean War. The MOU enhances cooperation and collaboration between the two agencies, streamlining efforts to locate, excavate, and identify the remains of fallen service members.
“We collectively have the best partnership that is beneficial to both our countries” said DPAA Director, Kelly McKeague. “It’s emblematic of the values that we share as free, prosperous, stable democracies. It is foundational to the ironclad alliance we share, still to this day. It’s an honor for me to join Director Lee here.”
“Thank you for welcoming us,” said MAKRI Director, Keun-Won Lee, “We’re still trying to locate all the U.S. fallen heroes, and I promise that we will keep trying.”
The signing of this MOU underscores the enduring commitment of both the United States and South Korea to honoring the sacrifices of their service members and providing answers to their families. DPAA and MAKRI will continue to work tirelessly to fulfill their solemn promise to never forget those who served and bring them home with honor.