The Invasion of South Korea

What happened when North Korea invaded South Korea?

The Korean War broke out when North Korea invaded South Korea and sent troops over the 38th parallel.

When did North Korea invade South Korea?

North Korea invaded South Korea on 25th June, 1950.

Why did North Korea invade South Korea?

North Korea invaded South Korea for 5 key reasons:

• ❖ North Korea invaded the south because Kim Il-Sung wanted to unite Korea under communist rule. By June 1950, he was confident an invasion would be successful.
• ❖ Kim Il-Sung had the support of communist leaders - Stalin in the USSR, and Mao Zedong in China.
• ❖ North Korea's armed forces were stronger than those of South Korea. The USSR had provided tanks, planes and heavy artillery.
• ❖ China became communist in 1949 and, after August that year, the USSR had the atom bomb. Kim Il-Sung thought these factors would deter a US response.
• ❖ American politicians had made speeches suggesting Korea was not seen as a priority.

Why were North Korean troops able to invade South Korea so easily?

Very few American troops were available to help the South Koreans defend their territory, making it easier for the north to invade.

What was the significance of North Korea's invasion of South Korea?

North Korea's invasion of South Korea was significant because it triggered a large-scale conflict that would last for 3 years and become the first hotspot of the Cold War in Asia.