Korean War

Korean War (1950–53), conflict between forces of the UN (primarily the United States and South Korea) and forces of North Korea and (later) communist China. In 1945 Korea was divided along latitude 38°N, Russia occupying lands north of this line, and the United States those south of it. The war began when North Korea launched a surprise invasion against South Korea and UN forces were sent to assist South Korea under Gen. Douglas Mac Arthur. By Nov. 1950 Chinese troops had joined North Korean forces and the fighting was situated over the 38th parallel. MacArthur was replaced in April 1951 by Gen. Matthew B. Ridgway. Two years of negotiations achieved an armistice signed at Panmunjom on July 27, 1953.

See also: Korea; United Nations.