The Korean War

The Korean War started in 1950. North Korea invaded South Korea, trying to take it over. The United States and other countries helped South Korea. China helped North Korea. The war lasted three years. It ended in 1953 without a clear winner.

How It Started

After World War II, Korea was split into two parts. The north was communist, and the south was not. North Korea wanted to unite Korea under one government. In June 1950, its army crossed into South Korea. This started the war.

Planes drop bombs on a seaside town during the Korean War.
Planes drop bombs on a seaside town during the Korean War. (USAF (photo 306-PS-51(10303)) / Wikimedia Commons)

The End of the War

Many countries sent soldiers to help under the United Nations. The fighting went back and forth across Korea. In 1953, both sides signed an agreement to stop fighting. Korea is still split in two today. The border is called the DMZ.

Fun Facts

  • The Korean War is sometimes called 'The Forgotten War' in America.
  • About 21 countries joined together to help defend South Korea.
  • Korea is still technically at war, since only a truce was signed, not a peace treaty.

Did You Know?

The DMZ between North and South Korea is one of the most guarded borders in the world.