MS Jutlandia

Jutlandia

MS Jutlandia was a Danish hospital ship and troop transport vessel, notable for its services during the Korean War. Originally built in 1934 by the Nakskov Shipyard in Denmark for the East Asiatic Company, the ship was designed for passenger and cargo transport. However, with the outbreak of the Korean War, MS Jutlandia was refitted as a hospital ship in 1950, under the auspices of the United Nations, to provide medical care and support to the UN forces in Korea.

History

MS Jutlandia was launched on July 8, 1934, and initially served as a merchant vessel, primarily between Denmark and Asia. With the German occupation of Denmark during World War II, the ship's operations were significantly disrupted. Post-World War II, Jutlandia resumed its commercial services until it was commissioned as a hospital ship in response to the United Nations' call for medical assistance during the Korean War.

Korean War Service

The transformation of MS Jutlandia into a hospital ship involved extensive modifications. The ship was painted white with large red crosses, signifying its neutral and humanitarian mission. It was equipped with operating theatres, recovery wards, and medical facilities capable of performing complex surgeries and treatments. Over three deployments to Korea between 1951 and 1953, Jutlandia treated thousands of soldiers and civilians, earning international acclaim for its crew's dedication and professionalism.

Post-Korean War

After the Korean War, MS Jutlandia was refitted once again for its original role as a passenger and cargo ship. It continued in this capacity until 1965, when it was sold for scrap. The legacy of MS Jutlandia lives on in Denmark and among the nations it served during the Korean War, symbolizing peace and humanitarian efforts in times of conflict.

Legacy and Commemoration

Today, MS Jutlandia is remembered through various memorials and exhibits in Denmark, including at the Danish Maritime Museum. Its story is a testament to the broader role of non-combatant ships in war, serving as a reminder of the humanitarian efforts that accompany military conflicts. The ship's contributions to medical care during the Korean War have also been recognized in South Korea.

See Also

• Hospital ship
• Korean War
• United Nations
• Danish Maritime Museum