NZ Expands Medal Recognition for Defence Role in North Korea Sanctions

In a move that underscores the Government’s ongoing support for its Defence Force personnel, Defence Minister Judith Collins has announced the expansion of medallic recognition for those who have served in operations enforcing United Nations sanctions against North Korea. The change extends eligibility for the New Zealand General Service Medal 2002 (Korea) to an additional 350 personnel, in recognition of their participation in Operation Whio since 2018.

“This medal has already been awarded to 180 Defence Force personnel, and the expansion of eligibility means hundreds more will now receive the recognition they rightly deserve,” said Minister Collins.

Operation Whio: Supporting the UN’s Rules-Based Order

Since its inception in 2018, Operation Whio has represented New Zealand’s military contribution to the enforcement of United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions on the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea). The mission aims to monitor and deter attempts to evade international sanctions that were imposed in response to North Korea’s nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes.

Over the past seven years, New Zealand has conducted 19 deployments as part of the operation, including:

• Seven deployments of Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft, such as the P-3K2 Orion and the newer P-8A Poseidon, along with aircrew and ground support teams

• The 2024 deployment of the HMNZS Aotearoa, New Zealand’s largest naval vessel

• Rotations of staff officers serving in key headquarters roles

These contributions have been integral to multinational maritime patrol efforts, aimed at detecting and deterring ship-to-ship transfers and other violations of the UNSC’s sanctions regime.

Medal Update Reflects Modern Military Contributions

The New Zealand General Service Medal 2002 (Korea) was initially created to honour service relating to the United Nations Command and the ongoing enforcement of the Korean Armistice Agreement. With the expanded eligibility announced today, the medal now also honours participation in Operation Whio’s non-combat, but strategically vital missions.

“This is another example of how we are contributing to upholding the international rules-based order,” Minister Collins said. “Previously, this specific medal was only awarded for activities related to the Korean Armistice. This expansion ensures we also honour those whose service continues to promote peace and security in the region.”

Honouring Service in Difficult Conditions

The recognition comes as part of a wider governmental effort to support the wellbeing and morale of Defence personnel, many of whom serve in complex and often dangerous international environments.

“Our people do what we ask of them, when we ask it, often in trying conditions,” said Collins. “Medallic recognition is one tangible way to show our appreciation for their skill, commitment, and professionalism.”

Defence personnel involved in Operation Whio frequently operate in challenging maritime and aerial conditions in the Northwest Pacific, contributing to a global coalition effort to prevent proliferation and uphold international law.

What Comes Next

Personnel who qualify under the new eligibility criteria will be formally notified and awarded the NZGSM 2002 (Korea) in upcoming ceremonies, likely to be held at bases and Defence Force units throughout the country in the coming months.

As global tensions continue to evolve, particularly in East Asia, New Zealand’s contributions to peacekeeping and sanctions enforcement remain a vital part of the country’s foreign policy and defence commitments.

“This is not just a medal,” Collins said. “It is a symbol of New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to a safer, more secure world — and of our deep gratitude to those who help make it so.”