The document provides background information on the Korean Conflict that occurred from 1950 to 1953. It details that following World War II, the Korean Peninsula was divided along the 38th parallel, with the Soviet Union occupying the north and the United States occupying the south. Tensions rose between the two sides, with the north becoming more heavily armed by the Soviets and the south unprepared for potential conflict. In June 1950, the north launched a surprise attack against the south, sparking the Korean War. The United States led a United Nations coalition to defend the south from the north's invasion.

1. Korean Conflict 1950-1953 Background Information

2. (Burma)

4. What does the title of the article infer? Why might the wording sound familiar to you? As you read the article, complete parts of the chart of info about the Korean Peninsula. Compare and contrast the preparedness of the North and South Korean armies. Why couldn’t the South Koreans detect North Korean movement? On which country did the South Koreans place blame for the attack? What is the Security Council issue described? Newsweek Article 7/3/50

5. South Korean Flag North Korean Flag

6. Japanese in S > US 1949: US withdrew Left 500 military advisors Japanese in N > SU 1948: SU withdrew Armed North heavily A. End of WWII

7. Syngman Rhee Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Republic of Korea Kim Il Sung The South The North Formal Name Political Leader

8. Seoul agriculture Warm, Typhoons – plains Two-thirds 20 million Pyongyang industry Colder, less rain – mountains One-third 10 million The South The North Capital Economy Climate/ Landscape Population

9. B. Dean Acheson’s Statement U.S. Secretary of State US would help if attack made to EAST of specified DEFENSE LINE Alaska Japan Philippines

10. C. Reasons for Soviet Involvement US believed SU pressured NK to invade BUT SU hesitant b/c we had A-bomb

11. Kim convinced Stalin – low risk operation AFTER he invaded SK WHY LOW RISK? SU sent 26,000 troops & weapons

12. D. U.S.’s (non) interest in Korea Civilian vs. Military vs. Truman views Truman ordered air/naval support to SK Executive Privilege: “ President does not have to disclose information to congress or the Supreme Court… Usually invoked to protect confidential military, diplomatic operations or private discussions/debates of president w/ close aides”

13. Truman commits 1.5 million US troops Under auspices of UN

14. E. The S.U. Boycotts the U.N. Anger over China reps; UN as tool of US

15. SU not there to VOTE NO to UN > Korea United Nations General Assembly Security Council Talk about issues Each country has a representative in charge of military 5 permanent members SU, Br, Fr, Ch, US 10 rotating members