Peace at last

Question 1

Why did peace talks begin in 1951, and what delayed progress?

Answer 1

• Peace talks started in July 1951 as both sides realised the war was stuck in a costly stalemate with no clear winner.
• Progress was slow because neither side trusted the other and continued fighting while negotiating.
• One major disagreement was over POWs, as the UN wanted them to choose whether to return, but China and North Korea demanded forced repatriation.
• Despite ongoing talks, intense fighting carried on, causing over 30,000 casualties during this period.

Question 2

What events in 1952–53 helped move peace talks forward?

Answer 2

• In November 1952, Eisenhower was elected US President and promised to end the war, even hinting at using nuclear weapons to pressure the enemy.
• The death of Stalin in March 1953 weakened Soviet commitment to the war and opened the door to peace.
• China also became more willing to negotiate, as the war was draining resources and support at home.
• All sides faced mounting casualties and frustration, with no significant gains to justify continuing the conflict.

Question 3

What were the terms of the 1953 peace agreement?

Answer 3

• The armistice was signed on 27 July 1953, officially ending the fighting but not creating a permanent peace treaty.
• The border between North and South Korea remained at the 38th parallel, almost exactly where it was before the war.
• A 4km-wide Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) was established as a buffer between the two sides to prevent future conflict.
• It was agreed that prisoners of war could choose whether to return home or remain where they were.