Seoul, June 23, 2024 – As the world commemorates the 74th anniversary of the Korean War, KFN (Korean Forces Network) presents a special documentary titled “Heroes of Asia – Little Tiger and Conrado Yap.” This tribute will air on June 25, 2024, at 9:00 AM, highlighting the remarkable contributions of Thai and Filipino soldiers who fought for South Korea’s freedom and peace.
The documentary focuses on two notable figures: “Little Tiger,” a nickname given to the brave Thai soldiers who fought at Pork Chop Hill in November 1952, and Conrado Yap, a heroic captain from the Philippine 10th Battalion Combat Team who sacrificed his life during the Battle of Yultong in April 1951. Through this special, KFN aims to shed light on the often-overlooked contributions of these Asian nations.
The Thai soldiers, dubbed the “Little Tigers,” earned their name for their fierce combat prowess despite being heavily outnumbered. Their bravery at Pork Chop Hill, a critical and fiercely contested site, was instrumental in thwarting enemy advances. Captain Conrado Yap’s heroics at the Battle of Yultong are legendary. Despite being surrounded by enemy forces, he led a counterattack to rescue wounded soldiers and retrieve the dead, ultimately sacrificing his life in the process. His actions were pivotal in maintaining the defensive line, earning him posthumous accolades from both the Philippine and South Korean governments.
The documentary team traveled to Thailand and the Philippines to meet with surviving veterans and document their memories. One of the featured veterans is Charat Thammasing, a 100-year-old Thai veteran who participated in the evacuation operations in Pyongyang. Despite his advanced age and hearing difficulties, his recollections of the war remain vivid, providing a poignant glimpse into the past.
In Thailand, the team also visited the 21st Infantry Regiment, known as the “Little Tigers,” which played a significant role during the war. Located in Chonburi, this regiment continues to honor its legacy with a dedicated Korean War Memorial and Museum. The HTMS Prasae II, a decommissioned ship, serves as a museum and a memorial at the mouth of the Prasae River, further cementing the historical ties between Thailand and South Korea.
The documentary pays homage to Conrado Yap, awarded the Medal of Valor by the Philippine government and posthumously honored with the Taeguk Military Cross by South Korea. Another highlighted hero is former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos, who served as a platoon leader in the 20th Battalion Combat Team. Their stories are recounted through interviews with their families, preserving their legacies for future generations.
The Battle of Yultong, where Captain Yap demonstrated extraordinary bravery, is a testament to the fighting spirit of the Filipino soldiers. The 10th Battalion Combat Team, known as the “Fighting Filipinos,” played a crucial role in the battle, enduring intense combat against overwhelming odds. Their valiant efforts not only saved their battalion but also contributed significantly to the UN forces’ defense strategy.
In recognition of the sacrifices made by these veterans, the South Korean government has launched the “Homes for Patriots” initiative to improve their living conditions. Thai veterans like Pom Bamrungrak and Sawas Phummaduang have received new homes, symbolizing South Korea’s gratitude for their service. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to honoring and supporting those who fought for freedom and peace during the Korean War.
The documentary also explores the continuing partnership between South Korea and the Philippines, forged in the crucible of war and now extended through defense cooperation. The Philippine Navy’s BRP Antonio Luna and the FA-50PH fighter jets from South Korea exemplify this enduring alliance, with Korean-made weapons proving their worth in recent military exercises and operations.
KFN’s special documentary “Heroes of Asia – Little Tiger and Conrado Yap” can be viewed on various platforms, including SK BTV (IPTV) channel 263, KT Olleh TV (IPTV) channel 260, LG U+ (IPTV) channel 244, Skylife channel 163, regional cable networks, and KFN’s YouTube channel.
