It began on June 25, 1950 when North Korea invaded South Korea.

At first, no other countries were involved.

The United States became involved to help South Korea.

American troops drove North Korean troops to the Chinese border.

Chinese troops became involved.

From 1950 to 1953, both sides fought battles.

The war ended in an armistice (peace without a formal treaty).

The new border was essentially where the war had begun.

Approximately three million people died.

The Korean War, 1950-1953

Three Important Geographic Lines

In 1945, Korea was divided at the 38th parallel:The Soviets controlled the North.The United States controlled the South.

Mid-Korea

All the way to the south

In September, 1950, North Korean troops controlled almost the entire peninsula.

All the way to the north

In November, 1950, American and South Korean troops controlled almost the entire country

The war ended in 1953, at the same point where the country was divided in 1945 and in 1950.

The Domino Theory

The Chinese Civil War ended in 1948 with a victory by the Communists.

What does the Domino Theory argue?

Memorial to the Korean WarWhat does the inscription mean?

Memorial to the Korean WarWhat does the inscription mean?

As of today, 2008, North Korea and South Korea are divided by a demilitarized zone. Source.

North Korean soldiers looking south.

Source; source 2.