￭ Pre-modern Era
1. Three Kingdoms :
· Goguryeo (37 BC ~ 668 AD):
It ruled Manchuria and the northern part of the Korean Peninsula for 700 years.
· Baekje (18 BC ~ 660 AD):
It ruled the Southwestern part of the Korean Peninsula for 678 years.
· Silla (57 BC ~ 935 AD):
It ruled the southeastern part of the Korean Peninsula for 1000 years.
2. Unified Silla (668-935)
: Silla expanded its territories by merging with other dynasties on the Korean Peninsula until the establishment of the unified Korea.
3. Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392)
: Buddhism was endorsed as the national religion and came to have a great influence on the political and administrative spheres.
4. Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897)
: Confucianism was adopted as the governing ideology to make Korea a strong confucian country.
￭ Modern Era
1. Korean Empire (1897-1910)
: King Gojong of the Joseon Dynasty proclaimed himself Emperor to extend his influence and improve the image of the nation.
2. Japanese Invasion and Independence Movement
: With the Japanese invasion of Korea, its colonial rule continued for 35 years. Liberation rallies against Japanese invaders took place nationwide. About 2,000,000 citizens took to the streets on March 1, 1919, as part of the most well known anti-Japanese rule movement, otherwise known as the March 1st Movement, displaying intense aspirations toward national independence.
3. Provisional Government of Republic of Korean and Independence Struggle
: The provisional government of the Republic of Korea was established after the March 1st Movement in Shanghai, China. It served as the backbone to orchestrate organizational resistance against Japanese rule and bring in independence.
￭ The Republic of Korea
1. 8.15 Independence (August 15, 1945)
: With Japan’s defeat in the Pacific War, Korea gained independence.
2. Military Administration (August 15, 1945 ~ September 9, 1948)
: After independence was declared, the Soviet Union remained north of the 38th parallel until the Democratic People's Republic of Korea was established on September 9, 1948. Meanwhile the United States stayed south to see the establishment of the Republic of Korea from September 9, 1945 to August 15, 1948.
- International Agreement Timeline prior to 8.15 Independence
Near the end of the Second World War, the Allied Nations began discussing the independence of the Korean peninsula while dealing with the management of the territories previously under the Japanese rule.At the Cairo Conference in Nov, 1943, leaders of the US, UK, and China expressed their condolence for the Korean people under the cruel Japanese rule and declared their determination to bring about Korea’s independence with due procedure.
At the Yalta Conference in Feb. 1945, leaders of the three nations – the US, UK, and China - tentatively agreed on the independence of Korea after a certain period of trusteeship by the 4 nations: the US, the UK, the Soviet Union and China.
In Dec. 1945 at the Moscow Conference, foreign ministers of the US, UK, and Soviet Union laid out a foundation to prepare for Korea's independence with a trusteeship rule by the 4 nations and established a U.S-Soviet Union Joint Committee to address issues between the South and the North.- Establishment of the 38th Parallel
The Soviet Army began advancing into the Korean Peninsula after declaring war against Japan on August 8, 1945, right before Japan's surrender, and occupied Pyongyang on August 22, 1945. By the end of August, they had occupied the entire North Korean territory, marking the beginning of its military administration over North Korea.
In order to prevent the Soviet Union from occupying the entire Korean Peninsula, the U.S.
telegrammed the UN on August 15, 1945, to declare the 38th parallel as the demarcation line which limited any further advancement of the US and the Soviet Union militaries to the other side. With the Soviet Union's tacit agreement, the 38th parallel was fixed as the military demarcation line on the Korean peninsula.
On September 4, 1945, one month after the Soviet Army’s occupation of North Korea, the U.S. Forces entered South Korea. MacArthur, Commander in Chief of the U.S. Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE), declared a military administration on September 7, 1945.
Different administration systems based on communism and democracy were endorsed respectively in North and South Korea. South Korea was advanced into a liberal democratic nation with the principle of capitalism and North Korea into a communist nation with socialism.
3. General Election of the Republic of Korea on May 10, 1948
: South Korea alone held a general election under the UN supervision on May 10, 1948, and the government of the Republic of Korea was established on August 15, 1948. The UN declared the Republic of Korea as the only officially recognized government on the Korean Peninsula on October 21, 1948 through the UN Resolution 293 (IV) on the independence of the ROK.
4. Establishment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on September 9, 1948
: With Kim, Il-sung in command, an election for the Supreme People’s Assembly was held on August 25, 1948, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was proclaimed on the September 9, 1948, recognized only by a few communist nations including the Soviet Union.
Ⅱ. The Korean War (6.25 War)
“Freedom is not free.”
In the pre-dawn hours of June 25, 1950, North Korea, supported by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea to make it a communist country, which triggered the Korean War over the Military Demarcation Line, otherwise known the 38th parallel.
At the beginning of the war, North Korea, equipped with a wide range of weaponry including 242 T-34 tanks, 176 self-propelled guns, 211 Air Force planes, and the likes, outpaced South Korea which had neither tanks, self-propelled guns, nor a single Air Force plane. With superior power, North Korea crossed into Seoul within three days and went further south reaching the Nakdong River within 2 months. Even though South Korea was inferior in military strength, all the South Koreans fought courageously against their Northern counterparts. The UN agreed on military aid for South Korea as North Korea had broken into South Korea illegally. Accordingly, the 21 UN allies militarily backed South Korea so they could drive back the invading army and protect the freedom of their native lands.
The Korean War was not just a war between North and South Korea. From the perspective of world history, it was a liberal move supported by 54 countries to cut off further communization under the auspice of the UN; 16 countries with military support; 5 with medical support; 33 with supply goods.
▷ The Progress of Korean War
1. Sudden Attack by North Korea (June 25, 1950)At 4 am, June 25, 1950, the North Korean army begun to cross the 38th parallel in a well-organized maneuver.
2. UN Participation
- The U.N. Security Council was called upon urgently to declare North Korea's attack an ‘act of aggression’ and ask the communist troops to withdraw from the 38th parallel.
-On July 7, the UN Security Council passed the resolution for military action on the Korean Peninsula and decided to send UN forces to South Korea.
-On July 8, Douglas McArthur was appointed as Commander in Chief of the United Nations Military Forces. During the Korean War, 16 countries directly participated in the war and 5 countries sent their medical teams to South Korea.
3. Incheon Landing (Sep. 15, 1950) and Recapture of Seoul (Sep. 28, 1950)On Sept. 15, the UN Forces and the Korean army embarked all-out counterattacks simultaneously with the Incheon Landing, which facilitated the recapture of Seoul and territory recovery up to the 38th parallel line within 97 months.
4. Going North (Oct. 1, 1950) and Capturing Pyeongyang (Oct. 10, 1950)After capturing Seoul, General MacArthur recommended the enemy forces to surrender but to no avail. Therefore, the first Korean Corps crossed the 38th parallel with the UN’s decision to go north followed by the ROK Ⅰ Corps’ advance from the central and western parts of the 38th parallel. With this orchestrated maneuver, the ROK Ⅶ Corps and the US Army’s 1st Cavalry Division successfully occupied Pyeongyang.
5. Chinese Intervention (Oct. 26, 1950)With Chinese intervention, the Korean War took a new phase. South Korea withdrew the troops from Pyongyang and Heungnam while China broke through South Korea's defensive line and recaptured Seoul with the rearranged North Korean army.
6. Recapture of Seoul (Mar. 15, 1951)The UN Forces and the South Korean army pushed forward again and recaptured Seoul on March 15, 1951.
7. Effectuation of Armistice (Jul. 27, 1953)
In 1951, the Soviet Union and the US agreed to cease the war. The truce talks started in Gaeseong on July 10, 1953 following the pre-talks two days earlier. They changed a venue for the meeting to Panmunjeom, but the talks were riddled with difficulties regarding setting up the military demarcation line and exchanging prisoners of war. Finally, the armistice became effective on July 27, 1953.
During the 3 years of the fratricidal war, the whole country collapsed into ruins with countless casualties: roughly 180,000 UN and South Koreans dead and 520,000 North Koreans and 900,000 Chinese dead, respectively. Besides that, an additional 990,000 South Koreans were killed or wounded. The war displayed about 2,400,000 people and orphaned another 100,000. Over 10,000,000 dispersed families were reported. The war left unforgettable scars on the Korean people. 
After the Korean War, the Korean Peninsula was divided into two countries-the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea). The two countries established different political and social systems after the war. Historian, E.H.Carr said, “History is a communication between past and present.” Historical understanding and evaluation about the Korean War varies depending on the two Korea’s perspectives. At the end of 20th century, decades since the Korean War, ideological wars ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union and the unification of Germany. However, North Korea, one of the most bellicose countries in the world, is still suffering from abject poverty. The worship of Kim Il-Sung in North Korea was consolidated and passed on to his son, Kim Jung-Il by prohibiting basic human rights such as the freedom of expression, assembly and demonstration.On the contrary, South Korea has achieved dramatic development based on democracy and the market economy. South Korea, the 10th largest economy, increased its national income per head to $ 20,000, a rapid growth from a mere $50 per head right after the Korean War. South Korea was not admitted as a UN member due its divide with North Korea. However, South Korea has extended its political influence and leadership enough to claim the UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon.
South Korea is regarded as the only nation that successfully achieved both industrialization and democracy among the newly established countries after World War Ⅱ.
It has been 59 years since the Korean War. The world calls the achievements and success of South Korea a ‘miracle’. Behind the miracle, there were great efforts by the Korean people and courage and devotion of veterans who fought for peace and democracy in South Korea.
Current prosperity and freedom of South Korean prove that the belief and sacrifice of the 21 countries that participated in the Korean War were not in vain.
III. Countries that Participated in the Korean War
“The members of the United Nation Forces that are currently dispatching troops to the Korean War stand behind the decision of the commander of the UN Forces to conclude the cease-fire agreement. If the principles of the UN are again challenged by forced aggression, we will unite again for world peace and fight without any hesitation."
- A quote from 16 countries’ declaration on the cease-fire in the Korean Peninsula (July 27. 1953) -
- Countries That Deployed Troops
- Countries that Deployed Medical Support and Facility
- Casualties
￭ UN Nations that Participated in the War (focused on 6 Countries)
1. U.K.
(1) Key Roles in the Korean War
Although the U.K. was one of the countries with veto power in the United Nations Security Council, they contributed to passing the resolutions including ‘Request of Military Intervention to Stop the North Invasion’ and 'Military Aid for South Korea.’ The UK Press criticized the government for its passive position regarding military support while reviewing the dispatch of ground troops following the dispatch of a marine battleship to South Korea on Jun. 30.
Upon the US’s request for military support and domestic sentiment in favor of military support, the UK decided to send the 29th infantry regiment on July 26. However, they instead dispatched 2 infantry regiments stationed in Hong Kong to South Korea on Aug. 20 with the worsening situation of the battle in South Korea. The UK with mighty military strength co-led the war with the US. Besides that, the U.K. had a great influence on the participation of the Commonwealth Nations including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and India in the war,
(2) Key Battles
(Battle of Jeongju, Battle of Pakchon, Battle of Goyang, Battle of Seolma-ri/ Jeoksung,
Battle of Kapyong, etc.)
- Battle of Jeongju (Oct. 29-30, 1950)
The Battle of Pakchon was a battle between the British Commonwealth’s 27th Brigade and the retreating North Korean Force (reinforced with a T-34 tank) at Jeongju during the northward advance operation to the borderline between Korea and Manchuria. Attached to the U.S 24th Division, this Brigade participated in the northward advance operations and crossed the Cheongcheon River as the U.N. Forces' leading unit captured Pyeongyang. In spite of stiff resistance from the North Korean Army equipped with tanks, they defeated the North Korean Army and captured Jeongju. After capturing Jeongju, the brigade carried out preliminary duties there, which supported the U.S 24th Division to advance from Jeongju to Jeonggeodong without much trouble. - Battle of Pakchon (Nov. 4-6, 1950)
The Battle of Pakchon was a battle between the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade and an unknown number of Chinese and North Korean troops. As the Chinese Communist Forces began a large-scale offensive on Oct. 25, the British 27th Brigade carried out preliminary duties at Jeongju and then headed for Pakchon to assist the withdrawal of the U.N. Armed Forces (the U.S. 24th Division & the U.S. 1st Cavalry Division). Afterwards, it fought against the Chinese Communist Forces in chase of the withdrawing U.N. Forces. The 27th Brigade faced a crisis in this battle because the supporting Artillery Battalion was taken over by the Chinese Communist Forces and the retreating path to the Cheongcheon River was also blocked. However, it was able to safeguard the Pakchon area with counterattacks. This battle greatly helped the U.N. Forces secure the Cheongcheon River bridgehead during the Chinese Communist Forces' 2nd offensive. - Battle of Seolma-ri (Apr. 22-25, 1951)
The Battle of Seolma-ri was a defensive battle between the British Commonwealth 29th Brigade defending this area and the Chinese Communist 3 Army Corps. This Brigade helped the retreat of the U.N. Forces by defeating the Chinese Communist’s series of full-scale attacks for 3 days, which allowed the U.N. Forces to form a new defense line in the northern Seoul. However, the Brigade lost approximately one fourth of its forces during this battle. Its Gloucester Battalion was surrounded by the two divisions of the Chinese Communist Army from all directions and only 39 members of this Battalion were able to escape.
-Ceremony at Commonwealth Memorial for Battle of Kapyong (Apr. 21)
-Memorial Ceremony for Battle of Seolma-ri (Apr. 24)
-British Monument
-Monument of Battle of Seolma-ri
(4) Diplomatic Relations between the UK and South KoreaThe diplomatic relations between Korea and the UK date back to the 18th century. Ernest Thomas Bethel, a British journalist, helped work towards Korea’s independence during Japanese colonial rule, and later, the Korean government credited him as a man of merit for his work. The official diplomatic relationship between the two nations was established in 1949. The U.K. sent the 2nd largest troops to the Korean War, following the US.
With the increasing number of students going to the UK for study, trade between the two nations has been on the rise since the end of the Korean War. With an explosive increase of students going to the UK for study in 1990s, the 17,000 mark was surpassed in 2005. Every year, many Korean students are given British Chevening Scholarships from the UK government, which support graduate students in various fields.
With the establishment of the British Chamber of Commerce in Seoul, exchange and trade volume grew to the worth of $8.4 billion. In the 1990s, investment by Korean companies in the UK increased and vice versa. As a result, the amount of investment from the U.K. in the Korean market reached about $10 million. In December 2004, President Roh Moo-Hyun visited the UK after an invitation from Queen Elizabeth II, which was the first official visit of the Korean President to the UK, showing the growing amiable relationship between the two nations.
2. Canada
(1) Key Roles in the Korean War
Canada participated in the Korea War as one of the British Commonwealth Nations (the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the Republic of South Africa) by dispatching 1 infantry battalion in 1950. The Canadian Forces stayed in South Korea for about 7 years until July, 1957.
Canada was the fifth country to dispatch combat troops to the Korean War as well as its ground, navy and air forces. The Canadian Navy deployed 3 destroyers to Korean waters on July 5, 1950 to carry out operations starting from Jul. 30 under the command of the U.S. Far East Navy Headquarters. The Canadian Air Force sent the 426th Air Transport Battalion to participate in the Korean War from July 26, 1950. In addition, Canada sent 22 pilots to the U.S. Far East Air Force and allowed them to maneuver U.N. Air Force aircrafts. The Canadian Ground Forces established the 25th Brigade to deploy troops and the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI) 2nd Battalion under its command arrived in Busan on Dec. 18, 1950, which was the first with the main force arriving in the early May, 1951. Even though the entire Canadian 25th Brigade was initially planned to be deployed together, only one battalion was deployed first as the situation bettered with the UN Forces' northward advance. However, the main force was later deployed with the deteriorating situation due to the Chinese intervention.
The PPCLI 2nd Battalion, which was deployed first, was assigned to the British 27th Brigade to carry out operations but returned to their Brigade after the the Canadian 25th Brigade arrived. The Canadian 25th Brigade, assigned to the U.S. Army Corps Division, performed duties and was later affiliated to the British 1st Division for operations near the Imjin River area from July 28, 1951 until the cease-fire agreement was signed.
(2) Key Battles
(Battle of Gapyeong, Battle of Jail-ri/ Uncheon, Battle of Gowang San/ Yeoncheon and Battle of Nabu-ri/ Jeonkok, etc.)
- Battle of Kapyong (Apr. 23-25, 1951)
The Battle of Kypyong was a defensive battle between the British 27th Brigade and the Chinese Communist 20th Army Corps as part of the 1st Spring Offensive. In April, 1951, the Chinese Corps launched a surprise attack against the South Korean 6th Division and expanded their breakthrough. The British 27th Brigade composed of 3 battalions-the Australian Battalion, the Canadian Battalion and the Battalion of the British Middlesex-had a defensive battle for 3 days with the support of the New Zealand Artillery Battalion.
In this battle, the withdrawal of the 6th Division was completed, and a main supply route from Seoul to Chuncheon was secured as attacks of the Chinese Corps were foiled. - Battle of Jail-ri
The Battle of Jail-ri was a battle in which the Canadian 25th Brigade encountered the Chinese Communist Army for the first time in the Korean War.
Participating in the Counter Offensive Operation launched by the U.N. Armed Forces after stopping the Chinese Communist 2nd Spring Offensive, this Brigade moved to Uncheon and attacked Jail-ri in the north and Gakgeolbong (Hill 467) in the east. In this battle, this brigade captured a portion of Jail-ri and Gakgeolbong, but it retreated to the Uncheon area after its failed attack due to the Chinese Communist’s stiff resistance and counterattacks. After this battle, it was called on for reserve duty and moved to the Pocheon area.
- Ceremony at Commonwealth Memorial for Battle of Kapyong (Apr. 24)
- Canada Monument
- Hongcheon Area Battle Monument
(4) Diplomatic Relations between Canada and South KoreaDiplomatic relations between South Korea and Canada were established when Canada recognized the Korean government in 1949 and dispatched the third largest troops to South Korea during the Korean War. Canada established the formal diplomatic relations with Korea in 1963. The Canadian Embassy in Korea was established in January, 1964, and the Korean Embassy in Canada in August, 1964. Canada and South Korea forged a relationship of special companionship at the Canada-South Korea Summit Talk in 1993. There have been active exchanges with the number of immigrants to Canada reaching to 94,437 and visitors to 15,689 as of 1997. As the Working Holiday Agreement was signed, cultural exchanges between Canada and South Korea have been extended.
3. Australia
(1) Key Roles in the Korean War
Australia was the third country among the U.N. members that participated in the Korean War by sending combat troops as well as its ground, navy and air forces. Australia dispatched its navy and air forces first on July 1, 1950, followed by its ground troops on September 27, 1950.
Two Australian frigate ships stationed in Hong Kong at the time, under the command of the British Commonwealth Far East Fleet, arrived in Korean waters on July 1, the 6th day of the war, and began operations under the command of the U.S. Far East Navy Headquarters. The Australian Navy carried out sea operations with 1 aircraft carrier, 2 destroyers, and 1 frigate ship. The total number of ships participated in the war was 9: 1 aircraft carrier, 4 destroyers and 4 frigate ships. The Australia Air Force 77th Flight Battalion stationed in Japan, as a member of British Commonwealth Occupying Force, participated in the Korean War under the command of the U.S. 5th Air Force Corps, and one air transport formation was later added to the war.
The ground troop, the Australia 3rd Battalion, stationed in Japan as a member of the Allied Forces, arrived in Busan on September 27, 1950 and began ground operations after being assigned to the British 27th Brigade.
Afterwards, the Australia 1st Battalion arrived in Busan from Australia on April 9, 1952 and was assigned to the British Commonwealth 28th Brigade of the 1st Division. The Battalion returned home after being replaced by the 'Australia 2nd Battalion' newly deployed on March 21, 1953. One battalion from the Australia ground troops first participated in the war and 2 battalions joined the war after April, 1952.
(2) Key Battles
(Battle of Youngyu-ri/ Sookchen, Battle of Pakchon, Battle of Jookdoon-ri/ Gapyeong, Battle of Maryang San, Jeonkok, etc.)
- Battle of Youngyu-ri
>Battalion Commander, Lieutenant D.H. Green listening to Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Goad regarding operation instructions
The Battle of Youngyu-ri was a battle between the Australia 3rd Battalion, a member of the British 27th Brigade, and the North Korea 239th Regiment, near the Youngyu-ri area, which was maneuvered in collaboration with the U.S. 187th Airborne Brigade at Sookcheon. This Battalion was initially assigned to the U.S. 24th Division to attack Sinanju-Jeongju after the U.S. 1st Army Corps captured Pyeongyang, but they launched airborne operations near the Sookcheon and Suncheon areas following Pyeongyang's capture. When the US 187th Airborne Brigade was attacked by the North Korean army deployed at Youngyu-ri and Eopa-ri, this Battalion was ordered to rescue the brigade. The battalion as a part of the British 27th Brigade arrived in Youngyu-ri and attacked the North Korean defense position with a tank battalion's support. It captured the enemy's position and carried out a collaborative operation with an airborne brigade. The battalion completed many operations with only little loss in this battle. Later, the battalion along with a British brigade continued to advance north. - Battle of Jookdun-ri/ Kapyong (Apr. 23-25, 1951)
The Battle of Jookdun-ri was a battle between the Australia 3rd Battalion attached to the British Commonwealth 27th Brigade and the Chinese Communist Army at Jookdun-ri, 7km north of Gapyeong, as part of the Chinese Communist 1st Spring Offensive. In this battle, the British Commonwealth 27th Brigade assisted the South Korean Army 6th Division, attacked by the Chinese Communist Army, to retreat from the battle zone by stopping the Chinese Communist Army from blocking a path linking Seoul to Chuncheon and then followed retreating forces to Gapyeong. The success in this battle played an important role in annulling the Chinese Communist’s plan to block the road from Gapyeong to Seoul and Chuncheon and stopping the 1st Spring Offensive - Battle of Maryang San (Oct. 3-8, 1951)
With a cease-fire in discussion, the battle of Maryang San continued with the Australia 3rd Battalion capturing Maryang Mt, 10km north of the Jeonkok defense line during the Commando Operation by the U.N. Forces to secure a favorable defense line before the establishment of the cease-fire line. This Battalion repeatedly turned away the Chinese Communist stiff resistance and captured Mt. Maryang. The success of the Commando Operation allowed the U.N. Forces to secure the road network linking Cheolwon - Yeoncheon - Seoul.
- Ceremony at Commonwealth Memorial for Battle of Kapyong (Apr. 21)
- Australia Monument
(4) Diplomatic Relations between Australia and South Korea
Korea established diplomatic relations with Australia in 1947 when Australia became a member of the United Nations Temporary Commission on Korea (UNTCOK).
Since the Korean War, the two nations have been keeping a collaborative relationship in terms of policy and diplomacy with shared international values on the market economy and human rights. Korea and Australia are important trading partners. They discussed solutions for the international financial crisis at meetings such as G-20, APEC, ARF and EAS. With an increasing number of immigrants and overseas students, Australia and South Korea are strengthening bilateral relationship.The trade volume increased from $8.3 billion in 2002 to $13.7 billion in 2005 and Australia is Korea’s 8th largest trading partner: 7th in imports and 8th in exports while Korea is Australia’s 4th largest trading partner following China, Japan and USA. In 2008, 223,200 Korean people visited Australia and 96,138 Australian tourists to Korea.
4. Thailand
(1) Key Roles during the War
Thailand became independent from Japan on Aug. 15, the same day of Korea’s independence. Despite difficult domestic situations, Thailand informed the UN that they would send rice, their main product, to South Korea. In addition, Thailand held a National Security Council and decided to dispatch 4,000 Ground Forces. Later, Thailand dispatched their Navy and Air Forces, showing their support to the UN efforts to put an end to communist invasion.
(2) Key Battles
(Battle of Yuldong, Battle of Pork Chop Hill, Battle of Sadong, etc.)
- Battle of Pork Chop Hill (Nov. 1- 11, 1952)
The Battle of Pork Chop Hill was a battle between the Thai Battalion under the U.S. 2nd Division and 2 enemy regiments under the Chinese Communist Army 113th Division while defending the main defense line, northwest of Yeoncheon. The Thai Battalion stopped the advance of the Chinese Communist Army Attack Unit, using fire power support from the regiment and division, and defended this outpost by defeating the Chinese Communist Army in hand to hand combat. The Thai Battalion caused heavy losses to the Chinese Communist Army while only incurring minimal loss. The Thai Battalion received the nickname 'little tiger' for its valor in the battle. - Battle of Kimhwa Hill No. 351 (Jul. 14-27, 1953)
>Thai spotter observing the enemy position
With the cease-fire agreement, the Thai Navy was withdrawn in January 1955 and the air force in Nov. 1964. The Ground Troops were withdrawn in 1954 leaving 1 company, which withdrew June, 1972.
- Yeoncheon Area Defense (Jul. 31 ~ Sep. 7, 1951)
>Thai soldiers on a tank supported
The Thai Battalion attached to the U.S. 1st Cavalry Division defended the Yuldong area, north of Yeoncheon, from July 31 to September 7, 1951. During this period, the battalion safeguarded the outpost in front of the main defense line and performed a reconnaissance mission on the enemy's outpost. While patrolling on August 18, they found 2 companies of the Chinese Communist Army and successfully launched a surprise attack on them. The battalion was called upon for reserve duty on September 7.
(3) Ceremonies and Monuments of the War
- The Ceremony of Taking the Field in the Korean War (Oct. 27)
- Thailand Monument
- Breakthrough of the 38th parallel line Monument
(4) Diplomatic Relations between Thailand and South KoreaThailand and South Korea have kept a close relationship for a long time. Thailand recognized the Korean government in July, 1949. The two nations have maintained official diplomatic relations since 1958 and also kept a multifaceted relationship with ASEAN, ASEAN and APEC. At the moment, Korea is the 9th largest trading partner for Thailand and the interdependence has been increasing since the two escaped financial difficulties in 1999. Despite the world economic slump in 2001, the trade between the two nations has continuously increased to reach $3.38 billion per year. Korea is the 14th largest exporting and 8th largest importing partner for Thailand. Interdependency is expected to grow continuously as the two have seen more exchanges in education, culture and sports. They made a cooperation protocol for sports in 1999. About 510,000 Koreans visited Thailand in 2001. The friendly relationship is getting stronger in the fields of culture and tourism between the two nations.
5. Colombia
(1) Key Roles in the Korean War
Colombia sent its navy and ground troops to the Korean War. The Navy sent 1 frigate ship to Korean waters on May 8, 1951, to perform sea operations under the command of the U.S. Naval Force. One infantry battalion under the name of the 1st Battalion arrived in Busan on June 15, 1951. This was the last unit to arrive in Busan as ground troops. This battalion moved to Hwajeon on August 1, 1951 and participated in battle zone operations after being assigned to the U.S. 24th Division.
(2) Key Battles
(Battle of Geumseong, Battle of Kimhwa Hill No. 400, Battle of Yeoncheon Hill No.180, etc.)
- Battle of Geumseong (Oct. 13-21, 1951)
> Colombian Battalion moving to the battle line
The Battle of Geumseong was a battle between the Colombian Battalion advancing to Geumseong after being assigned to the U.S. 24th Division and the 119th Division and 200th Division under the Chinese Communist 67th Army Corps. In this battle, this battalion was operating in the battle zone and attacked Hill 570 in front of Heukunto Pass on Oct. 13 and the Hoe Pass in the south of Geumseong on October 21 to assist the division's advance to Geumseong. This battalion faced the Chinese Communist's stiff resistance in these two locations, but it captured the target positions with bravery. After serving to confront the Chinese Communist army at Hoe Pass, this battalion was assigned as a reserve unit on November 15. - Battle of Kimhwa Hill No. 400 (Jun. 21, 1952)
The Battle of Kimhwa Hill No. 400 was a battle in which the U.S. 7th Division launched a surprise attack on the enemy's outpost Hill No. 400 while performing preliminary duties at Wasu-ri. The patrol unit, consisting of 1 platoon of troops from the Battalion A Company, launched a surprise attack on the Communist's outpost located 500m north of the friendly force’s outpost at dawn and captured it. It then destroyed strongly built defense facilities before returning. - Battle of Old Baldy (Mar. 23- 25, 1953)
The Colombian Battalion after being assigned to the U.S. 7th Division fought at Hill No. 180 battle and took over guard duty around the main defense line of Deokeun-dong in the north of Yeoncheon. Then they fought against the 423rd Regiment of the Chinese Communist 141st Division at Old Baldy Hill, an outpost of the main defense line. As the A Company dispatched to Old Baldy Hill suffered from heavy casualties due to continued bombings by the Chinese Communists, the Battalion decided to replace the A Company with the B Company.
The Chinese Communists attacked on the night of March 23 when the A Company was being replaced with the B Company. Taking an advantage of lax security because of replacement, the Chinese Communists broke into the front of the Battalion’s position. The Colombian Battalion soldiers fought hand to hand with the Chinese Communists but had to retreat from the Hill as they were outnumbered. The regiment and division sent reserve units later for counterattacks, but the losses were mounting so recapturing the outpost was abandoned. As a result of this battle, the Old Baldy Hill fell into North Korea’s territory in the cease-fire agreement. After the cease-fire agreement, the Colombian ground troops and navy withdrew respectively in October, 1954 and in October, 1955. - Battle of Yeoncheon Hill No.180 (Mar. 10, 1953)
The Battle of Yeoncheon was a battle in which the Columbian Battalion attacked the Communist's outpost, 500m from the enemy's main defense line, while carrying out preliminary duties at Mageo-ri, northwest of Yeoncheon. At dawn, the Colombian Battalion A Company initiated an operation to capture Hill No.180, a strongly built outpost by the Chinese Communist Army, but faced the enemy's stiff resistance in the following battles. After capturing Hill No.180, the A Company destroyed the enemy’s defense facilities.
- Memorial Day of Monte Old Baldy: Mar. 23
- Colombian National Foundation Day: July
- Memorial Day of Battle of Geumseong-ri: Oct. 17
- Colombia Monument
(4) Diplomatic Relations between Columbia and South Korea
Columbia, the only South American nation that participated in the Korean War, established diplomatic relations with South Korea in 1962. Columbia has always had a friendly relationship with Korea and supported Korea at various international meetings including the UN. The two nations have tried to consolidate collaboration ties for actual benefits. In 2008, the two nations had the summit talk about expanding economic cooperation and setting up a memorial of the Korean War in Cartagena, Columbia.
When it comes to trade volume between Columbia and South Korea, both exports and imports have sharply increased (50-60%) and they have strengthened their relationships in economy, culture, technology, and others, based on practicality. Colombian imports from Korea rose to US$ 16.33 million and exports to Korea to US$ 400 million in 2005. Korean expatriates to Columbia were 428; 335 immigrants; 93 residents as of 2006.
6. New Zealand
(1) Key Roles in the War
New Zealand sent ground and naval forces to the Korean War. The New Zealand Navy deployed 2 frigate ships in Korean waters on Jul. 3, 1950 and allowed them to perform sea operations under the command of the U.S. Far East Navy Headquarters.
The New Zealand Ground Troops newly formed the 16th Artillery Regiment to deploy, which arrived in Korea on December 31, 1950. This unit was a regiment in formation, but was similar to a South Korean Force artillery battalion in terms of equipment capacity and size. Assigned to the British Commonwealth 27th Regiment on January 21, 1951, this unit supported regimental operations. It became a member of the British Commonwealth 1st Artillery Division on July 28, 1951 and directly supported the British Commonwealth 28th Brigade (the same unit as the 27th Brigade).
(2) Key Duties
(Treating wounded soldiers of the UN Forces and the Korean Army, and giving medical support to military hospitals)
- Counteroffensive Support Operation (Feb. 21 ~ Apr. 18, 1951)
> New Zealand Artillery's 25 pound cannonThe New Zealand 16th Artillery Regiment supported the British Commonwealth 27th Regiment's Albany Line Advance Operation (Juam-ri in the north of Yeoju - Yangdeokwon-ri in the south of Hongcheon) and the Kansas Line Advance Operation (Yangdeokwon-ri - Baekwun Mt., Sachang-ri) during the U.N. Forces' Counteroffensive Operation launched after the Chinese Communist New Year Offensive in 1951. - Battle of the Hook (May 2-28, 1953)
The Regiment supported a defensive battle in which a Canadian regiment fought against the Chinese Communist Army at the Hook Hill on the western shore of Samicheon on May 2, 1953. It also supported a defensive battle between the British Commonwealth 29th Regiment and the Chinese Communist Army in May 28, 1953. In these two battles, both the Canadian Force and the British Force lost their hill outposts to the enemy, but they successfully launched a counterattack with artillery support to recapture them. In this battle, the Chinese Communist Army fired 10,000 rounds of shells towards the hills. The British Commonwealth Division fired 24,000 rounds of shells in total and 4,500 by the New Zealand Artillery Regiment.
After the cease-fire agreement, the New Zealand Naval Force withdrew in March 1945 and Ground Troops in November 1955. - Commando Operation (Oct. 3-8, 1951)
The Regiment supported the British Commonwealth 28th Brigade's capturing operation of Gowang Mt. and Maryang Mt. during the Commando operation launched by the British Commonwealth 1st Division at Segol, 15km west of Jeonkok. It fired 72,000 rounds of shells during the 6-day battle, which recorded the largest number of shells fired in a single operation during the Korean War.
-The Commonwealth Ceremony for Battle of Kapyong (Apr. 24)
-New Zealand Monument
-Hongcheon Area Battle Monument
(4) Diplomatic Relations between New Zealand and South KoreaNew Zealand recognized South Korea in July, 1949 before diplomatic relations were officially established between the two nations. It participated in the Korean War with a 5,000 –strong army. New Zealand established official diplomatic relations with Korea in 1962, and the two nations have kept a good relationship since the Trade Agreement in 1978.
With President Lee Myung-Bak’s visit to New Zealand on May 3, 2009, it is expected that the two nations would work closely to get through the times of economic difficulties as shown in a quotation between the two leaders, “A friend in need is a friend indeed’. In addition, the two leaders expressed their satisfaction on a wide-range of exchanges in science fields due to the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement signed in 1997. The two leaders also agreed on the needs of collaborative researches on geothermal resources, gas hydrate, silver care robots, IT healthcare, and the likes.
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