History Daily 1120: The Korean War Begins
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Jun 25, 2025 The Korean War ignited on June 25, 1950, with North Korea's invasion shocking the world. A farmer's terrifying experience illustrates the invasion's immediate impact. Historical roots of the conflict trace back to post-World War II divisions. The struggle for Heartbreak Ridge showcases the brutal realities soldiers faced. The signing of the 1953 armistice created a demilitarized zone but left tensions unresolved. Today, North and South Korea remain in a fragile peace, haunted by their divided past.
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Min Jun-sun's Village Attack
- Local farmer Min Jun-sun witnessed North Korean tanks invading his village on June 25, 1950.
- He narrowly escaped as the village was shelled and destroyed in the early hours of the Korean War.
Origin of the 38th Parallel
- The 38th parallel border in Korea was a U.S. proposal to split the peninsula and keep Seoul in the south.
- This line divided families and set the stage for political and military conflict between North and South Korea.
Korean Division Leads to Rival Governments
- After Soviet and U.S. troop withdrawals by 1949, Korea became two separate countries with rival governments.
- Both North and South Korea claimed to be the legitimate government of a unified Korea, increasing tensions.