2. Origins of the Korean War
In the aftermath of World War II, the Korean Peninsula was split along the 38th parallel, creating Soviet-backed North Korea and American-supported South Korea. Tensions simmered until June 25, 1950, when North Korean forces surged across the border, intent on unifying the peninsula under communist rule. The swift invasion rapidly escalated into an international conflict, drawing in United Nations forces led predominantly by the United States. As ground warfare intensified, air superiority became critical, setting the stage for unprecedented aerial engagements. Within months, the skies above Korea transformed into a frontline confrontation, marking a significant escalation in Cold War hostilities.
