causes of the Korean War 1950-53

Question 1

cause - Kim il Sung, NK

Answer 1

Sung used guerilla tactics and tried to get support from USSR and China causing him to not act without Stalins permission. June 1950, Sung convinced Stalin that he could successfully invade SK as they were weak.

Question 2

cause - Syngman Rhee - SK

Answer 2

Rhee was a nationalist and virulent anti communist who wanted an independent Korea that was protected and didn’t have to deal with communists, relied on USA support

Question 3

cause - USSR

Answer 3

1949, Stalin rejected Sung’s plea for help due to US troops in the South but in 1950 when US didn’t include SK in the defensive perimeter they provided aid

Question 4

cause - China

Answer 4

1949, Mao’s main concern was communism in China so wasn’t concerned on Korea but in 1950 he realised if USA imperialist won it would threaten China so he sent troops to NK, with pressure from Stalin they fully supported NK.

Question 5

cause - The US

Answer 5

1949, US’ main priority was Japan until in 1951 Dean Acheson took the view that NK’s purpose was to control Japan, Asia and Philippines which threatened USAs communist victory

Question 6

cause - The UN

Answer 6

USA requested a session with the Security Council, which USSR could no block any actions so an immediate ceasefire was passed with no opposition, removed USAs involvement whilst giving SK protection.