The Korean War, spanning from 1950 to 1953, was a significant conflict between North Korea, backed by the Soviet Union and China, and South Korea, supported by the United Nations and primarily the United States. The war erupted on June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces, under Kim Il-sung, invaded South Korea. The United Nations Security Council swiftly intervened, authorizing a multinational coalition led by the United States to defend South Korea.

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The war saw a series of back-and-forth battles and shifting front lines, with significant events like the Battle of Inchon in September 1950, where a daring amphibious landing led by General Douglas MacArthur turned the tide in favor of the UN forces. However, as UN troops advanced into North Korea, Chinese intervention in late 1950 changed the course of the conflict. The war settled into a brutal stalemate around the 38th parallel, leading to negotiations for an armistice.

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The Korean War ended on July 27, 1953, with the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement, which established a demilitarized zone (DMZ) along the border and essentially maintained the status quo. The war's legacy was profound, leaving the Korean Peninsula divided into North and South Korea. The conflict highlighted the global tensions of the Cold War era, as well as the complexities of international politics. It had lasting implications for regional security, U.S. foreign policy, and the ongoing dynamics between North and South Korea, which remain divided to this day.

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Summary of major battles and events during the Korean War:

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1950

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Battle of Osan (July 5, 1950)

North Korean forces attacked US troops near Osan, marking the first engagement of the Korean War.

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Battle of Pusan Perimeter (August 4 - September 18, 1950)

United Nations forces established a defensive line around the city of Pusan, repelling North Korean attacks and preventing a total collapse.

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Battle of Inchon (September 15 - 19, 1950)

General MacArthur's successful amphibious landing behind North Korean lines at Inchon led to a major turning point in the war.

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Battle of Chosin Reservoir (November 27 - December 13, 1950)

UN forces, primarily US Marines, endured harsh winter conditions while fighting off Chinese forces in the Chosin Reservoir area.

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1951

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Battle of Heartbreak Ridge (September 13 - October 15, 1951)

US and UN forces engaged in a series of battles to capture the heavily fortified Heartbreak Ridge from North Korean and Chinese troops.

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Battle of Triangle Hill (October 14 - November 25, 1952)

A series of battles between UN forces and Chinese and North Korean forces around Triangle Hill, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides.

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1952

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Battle of Bloody Ridge (August 18 - September 5, 1952)

UN forces, mainly US Marines, engaged in fierce fighting against North Korean forces for control of Bloody Ridge.

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Battle of White Horse (October 11 - October 15, 1952)

A battle between US and Chinese forces near White Horse Hill, resulting in heavy casualties and changing hands multiple times.

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1953

Operation Little Switch (April 20 - May 3, 1953)
An exchange of sick and wounded prisoners between the UN and North Korea, paving the way for more significant negotiations.

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Operation Big Switch (August 5 - August 23, 1953)

A larger exchange of prisoners of war, bringing a gradual end to the conflict and leading to the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement.