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World-renowned South Korean sculptor Kim Wonguen has begun creating a large-scale wooden sculpture in the Odunpazari district of Eskisehir following a symposium held at Anadolu University’s Faculty of Fine Arts.
The work is dedicated to the memory of Turkish soldiers who lost their lives during the Korean War and is intended as a symbol of friendship between Türkiye and South Korea.
The artist, who visited Eskisehir to participate in an academic symposium with sculpture students at Anadolu University, commenced work on a wooden figure resembling a boxer, carved at near life-size proportions comparable to a sumo wrestler's.
The sculpture is being produced in an open workshop setting using saws and hand tools, with ongoing assistance from a university student.
A defining feature of the artwork is its gloves, which incorporate the flags of both nations. Kim Wonguen is engraving the Turkish flag on the left glove and the South Korean flag on the right, stating that the design reflects the shared historical experience and enduring solidarity between the two countries, particularly rooted in Türkiye’s military support during the Korean War.
The Korean War (1950–1953) saw the deployment of the Turkish Brigade as part of United Nations forces in support of South Korea.
During the conflict, thousands of Turkish soldiers served and significant casualties were recorded, leaving a lasting legacy in both nations’ historical memory.
Speaking about the project, Kim described the work as both an artistic and commemorative statement. He emphasized themes of struggle, unity, and remembrance, noting that the sculpture aims to express gratitude for Türkiye’s contribution during the war.
He referred to Türkiye and South Korea as “brother nations” bound by a shared history of cooperation and sacrifice.
An Anadolu University sculpture student, who is assisting the artist, stated that the work is in its final stages of production.
According to him, detailing and painting processes will follow the completion of the carving, and the sculpture is scheduled to be unveiled for public viewing in Eskisehir later this week.
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