General Overview
When did the Korean War start?
June 25, 1950.
What caused the Korean War to start?
North Korea invaded South Korea to unify the peninsula under communist rule.
What was the Pusan Perimeter?
A defensive line around the southeastern tip of South Korea, held by UN forces in 1950.
Why was General MacArthur relieved of his command?
For insubordination and publicly challenging President Truman's policies.
What is the DMZ?
The Demilitarized Zone, a heavily fortified border between North and South Korea.
When did the Korean War end?
July 27, 1953
Why was Korea divided after World War II?
It was split by the U.S. and the Soviet Union for post-war occupation, creating North (communist) and South (capitalist) Korea.
What was the Incheon Landing?
A successful amphibious invasion by UN forces led by General MacArthur in September 1950.
What type of warfare dominated the later stages of the war?
Trench and positional warfare
How many people died in the Korean War?
Estimates range from 2.5 to 3 million people.
Which two main countries supported North Korea?
China and the Soviet Union.
Who was the leader of North Korea during the war?
Kim Il-sung.
Why did China enter the Korean War?
To prevent the UN forces from reaching the Chinese border and to support North Korea.
What was the significance of the Battle of Chosin Reservoir?
A brutal battle in freezing conditions where UN forces executed a strategic withdrawal.
How did the Korean War affect U.S. military policy?
It led to increased military spending and a long-term U.S. military presence in Asia.
Which country led the United Nations forces supporting South Korea?
The United States.
Who was the president of South Korea during the war?
Syngman Rhee
What happened to Seoul during the war?
It changed hands multiple times, being captured by both North Korea and UN forces.
Was a peace treaty ever signed?
No, only an armistice was signed, meaning the war technically never officially ended.
What was the impact of the war on Korea?
Massive destruction, loss of life, and permanent division of the Korean Peninsula.
What was the dividing line between North and South Korea before the war?
The 38th parallel.
What was the role of the United Nations in the war?
The UN authorized military intervention to defend South Korea.
Who was the American general in charge of UN forces early in the war?
General Douglas MacArthur.
What organization was created to monitor the ceasefire?
The Military Armistice Commission and the Neutral Nations Supervisory Commission.
How is the Korean War remembered today?
Often called "The Forgotten War" in the West, but remains deeply significant in Korean and military history.