History of the Mongolia Flag: 1911 Statehood, Socialist Flags & the 1992 Design
Mongolia’s modern flag reflects more than a century of changing statehood, from the Bogd Khan era through the Mongolian People’s Republic to the democratic Constitution of 1992.
1911: restored national independence
After Mongolia restored national independence in 1911, state documents emphasized the importance of having a distinct national flag as a sign of sovereignty.
What did the 1911 flag look like?
Historical Mongolian sources describe a yellow flag with red edging, religious inscriptions and a Soyombo emblem.
1924: the Mongolian People’s Republic
The establishment of the Mongolian People’s Republic brought new state symbols and new flag designs.
1940, 1945 and 1960 revisions
Mongolia revised its state flag several times during the socialist period, including designs built around red and blue fields and the Soyombo symbol.
The socialist star
Late socialist-era flags included a star above the Soyombo, reflecting the political system of the Mongolian People’s Republic.
1992: the current flag
Following democratic transition, Mongolia adopted a new Constitution and the current flag on February 12, 1992.
What changed in 1992?
The socialist star was removed while the red-blue-red vertical layout and golden Soyombo were retained.
Why this continuity matters
The modern flag preserves the Soyombo as a symbol of Mongolian independence and statehood while removing an emblem tied specifically to the socialist era.
State Flag Day
Mongolia celebrates State Flag Day on July 10.
