The Korean War

38th Parallel

The dividing line set after Japanese troops surrendered in Korea in 1945, separating the Soviet-controlled North and American-controlled South.

Syngman Rhee

Elected leader of South Korea in 1948 under UN supervision, establishing his parliament in Seoul.

Kim Il-Sung

Leader of North Korea established by the Soviets in 1948, based in Pyongyang, who invaded South Korea in June 1950.

UN Resolution

In June 1950, the UN passed resolutions demanding North Korea to withdraw troops from South Korea and recommending member states to assist South Korea.

General MacArthur

Commanded UN forces during the Korean War, leading American troops and advocating for the use of nuclear weapons against China.

Armistice

Reached in July 1953 after a stalemate, ending the active fighting in the Korean War but not resulting in a unified, independent, and democratic government for Korea.

Korean War Phases

Military phases include North Korea's initial success, UN's counterattack leading to the recapture of Seoul, Chinese counteroffensive, and the eventual stalemate and armistice.

UNO Actions

Demonstrated superiority over the League of Nations in the Korean War but failed to achieve its objective for Korea, leading to significant casualties and suffering for Koreans.

Containment Policy

American strategy fearing the spread of Communism, viewing Korea's potential Communist unification as a threat to Europe and Asia, with implications for Japan and Formosa.