Following World War II and Japan's defeat in 1945, Korea, previously under Japanese colonial rule, was divided along the 38th parallel. The Soviet Union occupied the north, and the United States occupied the south.
Political and Ideological Differences
Significant differences emerged in the political systems and ideologies of the two Koreas. The North embraced communism under Kim Il-sung, while the South adopted a pro-Western, democratic system led by Syngman Rhee.
Cold War Tensions
The Korean Peninsula became a proxy battleground in the broader Cold War conflict between the United States and the Soviet Union. Both superpowers sought to extend their influence and prevent the other side from gaining a strategic advantage in the region.
North Korea's Invasion
On June 25, 1950, North Korea launched a surprise attack across the 38th parallel, aiming to unify the Korean Peninsula under communist control. The Korean War had begun.