At the close of World War II, the victorious Allied Powers did not know what to do with the Korean Peninsula. Korea had been a Japanese colony since the late nineteenth century, so westerners thought the country incapable of self-rule.
The Korean people, however, were eager to re-establish an independent nation of Korea.
Russia moved in to North Korea to "maintain order," while the United States took control of South Korea. Soon, the North Korean leader, Kim Il-sung, decided to seize South Korea as well, and establish a united communist nation.
In June of 1950, North Korea launched an attack across the 38th Parallel, touching off the Korean War.
- U.S. airman reacts to news that a truce has been declaredJoyful reaction as U.S. troops learn that the Korean War is over, July, 1953.
- An injured U.S. POW gets treatment after the POW exchange at Munsan-niReleased U.S. POW gets treatment for his injuries after prisoner exchange. August 5, 1953.
- Exchange of wounded North Korean POWs at PanmunjomNorth Korean POWs waiting for exchange at Panmunjom, September 8, 1953.
- An angry Communist POW berates a U.S. major during POW exchange at PanmunjomU.S. officer receives a tongue-lashing from a Communist POW at Panmunjom, Sept. 8, 1953.
- Paratroopers from India and the US exchange smiles and hats on the way to KoreaClowning around - U.S. and Indian paratroopers share a light moment on the way to Korea, 1953.
- Marilyn Monroe visits the troops in Korea after the ArmisticeTroops in Korea get a visit from Marilyn Monroe, February 17, 1954.
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