SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial paid tribute to American and South Korean veterans of the Korean War in a special ceremony on Saturday. The event, which was open to the public, commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Korean War's conclusion and honored the sacrifices made during what is often referred to as the "Forgotten War." As explained by the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, the Korean War (1950-1953) was a pivotal conflict that involved over 2.5 million casualties and left the Korean Peninsula divided between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) and the Republic of Korea (South Korea). ‘Warrior for Peace’ hosts fishing trip for veterans in Mission Bay The war reached international dimensions when North Korea, aided by the Soviet Union, invaded South Korea in June 1950. In response, the United Nations, with the United States as its principal participant, intervened on behalf of the South, while the People's Republic of China supported the North. The fighting ended in July 1953, but the war never officially concluded. To this day, both nations remain divided. This year’s ceremony is particularly significant, as it marks the 70th anniversary of the Mt. Soledad Memorial Association, which has been dedicated to preserving the memory and legacy of U.S. military veterans since the memorial’s dedication in April 1954. The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial features over 6,600 individual tributes to veterans, engraved on black granite plaques and mounted on 18 curved walls. These plaques serve as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifice of military men and women, including those who served in the Korean War. Marines to run from MCAS Miramar to Camp Pendleton to honor veterans Here's a photo recap of Saturday's event: The memorial is located at 6905 La Jolla Scenic Dr. South in La Jolla and is open to the public daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.