Julien De Backer
Bio
Julien De Backer enlisted in the Belgian military during the Korean War, seeking a better life after enduring tragedy during the German occupation of his homeland. In 1953, after a long journey with several stops along the way, he arrived in Korea. Upon reaching the front lines, he was immediately assigned to an observation post—one of the most dangerous positions. Despite the risks, he served with dedication and courage. Since the war, Julien has returned to Korea many times. Each visit has left him deeply moved by the warm gratitude of the Korean people. He is especially proud of his service and the role he played in supporting South Korea. Witnessing the country’s remarkable transformation—from war-torn to thriving—has reinforced his belief in the importance of their sacrifice.
Video Clips
Traveling to Korea
Julien De Backer joined the Belgian Army and began his journey to Korea, which he remembers taking nearly fifteen days due to multiple stops in different countries. After reaching Japan, he continued on to Korea, where he reunited with the rest of his unit. The long journey marked the beginning of his service on the front lines.
Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d08zH34sp1Q&start=614&end=814
Share from this page:
https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/julien-de-backer#clip-1
Embed:
Dangers at the Observation Post
Upon arrival, Julien De Backer was immediately assigned to an observation post, tasked with warning allied troops of any approaching enemy. Surprisingly, his greatest fear wasn’t the Chinese or North Korean forces—it was the poisonous snakes hiding in the terrain. Despite the danger, he remained alert and committed to his critical role.
Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d08zH34sp1Q&start=999&end=1167
Share from this page:
https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/julien-de-backer#clip-2
Embed:
Life on the Front Lines
Julien De Backer recalls front-line living conditions as tough but manageable. Troops slept in bunkers or tents, and showers were rare—reserved for special occasions when they lined up to wash and receive fresh clothes. According to him, the food was “rather ok,” though it became limited and less favorable whenever they were placed on alert because they received c-rations.
Share YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d08zH34sp1Q&start=1234&end=1378
Share from this page:
https://koreanwarlegacy.org/interviews/julien-de-backer#clip-3
Embed: