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UN Security Council: Korean War 1
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​United Nations Security Council
​The End of the Korean War in 1953

Chair: Hsueh Lung (KSHS)

Co-Chairs: ​Megan Liao (NMHS)

   Pin Yang (NSSH)

Director: Tim Lin (UCSD)

INTRODUCTION

Structure and Setup

  A common modern (2018) edition of the Security Council consists of 15 member states, including five permanent members (China, France, UK, USA and Russia, also known as P5s) with veto powers (meaning that a resolution must not be objected by either of the five P5s in order to pass) and ten temporary members that were elected according to the law of regional allocation. However, prior to 1965, only six temporary member states and P5s were present, marking a merely 11 states. For the sake of a broader discussion, DPRK, ROK, Japan and Cuba were added to this conference despite not being in the real life 1953 edition.

  From this point on, you will not see any reference after May 1953. Any event beyond this point has not happened yet and was not definite to happen. During the conference, you may not refer to a work beyond this time (i.e: WTO, the Warsaw Pact) unless it is a part of a to-be-established plan, and all information contained below this section considers 1953 as the “present”.

 

Mission

  The Security Council (SC) meets whenever global security is threatened. According to the Charter, the United Nations has four purposes:

1.     To maintain international peace and security;

2.     To develop friendly relations among nations;

3.     To cooperate in solving international problems and in promoting respect for human rights;

4.     To be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.

The SC aims to fulfil the mission of the UN with its exclusive execution power.

 

Power

  All member states of the UN agree to follow the decisions by the UNSC. While other committees allow nations to provide suggestions, only the Security Council has the authority to pass a resolution that possesses mandate power.

When an issue emerges, the council usually starts from milder measures, such as prompting  peace talks, under this case, the council may perform an investigation and try to achieve a pacific settlement. However, should a dispute lead to hostilities, the Council’s primary concern is to bring them to a quick yet complete end. In that case, the Council may issue ceasefire directives, or dispatch a peacekeeping force as a police action to reestablish peace. It may opt for enforcement measures, including Economic sanctions, arms embargoes, financial penalties and restrictions, travel bans, severance of diplomatic relations, blockade, or collective military action.[1]

While P5s generally own the power to block any execution method at their own will, the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 377 provides one and only way to bypass the veto powers. An “emergency special session” can be called upon on the basis of either a procedural vote in the Security Council or within twenty-four hours of a request by a majority of UN Members being received by the Secretary-General. When activated, the General Assembly under ESS condition may prompt mandate action. Unlike normal procedures, the P5s do not have a veto power to stop the ESS from being activated.[2]

 

Relevant Terminology

Cold War/ Hot War

In contrast to the Cold War which used nuclear power as a threatening factor to remain in a period of “neither war nor peace”, the Hot War signified a conflict in which one side performed a military invasion attempt on the other, thrusting both sides into physical military aggression, and ultimately leading to a declaration of war. The cold war and the phoney war are different by whether two involving blocs are officially in conflict or not.

Communist China

The government, led by Mao, won the Chinese civil war, and is situated in mainland China. In the conference, the Chinese government refers to the regime led by Chiang that is based in Taiwan.

Eastern Bloc/ Western Bloc

Stemmed from the geographical position of the bloc members in Europe, the term “Eastern Bloc” later referred to those who embraced communism and agreed to the directions of Moscow, while the Western bloc is generally linked with NATO and the USA.

Marshall Plan

A four-year plan offering 13 billion USD in aid to sixteen western European countries and Yugoslavia. Based on the Truman Doctrine, the US State Department determined that in order to restore financial autonomy in European countries, a massive amount of aid was required. The plan was effective in Western Europe but was generally denied access by the USSR in Eastern Europe despite some initial negotiations.

 

NATO

Abbreviated from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, it is a military alliance aimed at providing military support to all its members, especially against aggression from the USSR. The organization ruled that if one member of the NATO alliance was invaded, all other members will automatically declare war on the intruder without further confirmation required.

 

Proxy War

A war instigated by a major power which does not itself become involved.

 

The 38th Parallel

Due to a surprisingly sudden end to WWII, both USA and USSR were not prepared for the post-war occupation. The parallel, positioned merely in the center of the peninsula, separated the two forces. USSR took the north and provided support to Kim while the USA took the south.

Truman Doctrine

A foreign policy that promised aid and support to any nations threatened by the Soviet Union. The policy aimed to replace the UK as the powerhouse of anti-communism. It ultimately strengthened the USA’s position in international affairs, and nonetheless increased the conflict between the Eastern and the Western bloc.

 

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

^ The animated Communism map in the 1950s. The ally of the USA tried to contain the communists using the help of R.O.K, Japan, Taiwan, Vietnam, India, and so forth. (From Animated Communism map)

 

The end of the Second World War separated the Korean Peninsula into two parts, North Korea, dominated by the Soviet Union, and South Korea, emboldened by the United States. While the two regions were separated, tensions increased between the Communist power, led by the Soviet Union, and the capitalist nations, consisting of United States, France, United Kingdom, and the Republic of China. The Cold War began almost immediately after the Second World War, intensifying the hostility between the western nations and the eastern states.

 

According to the “Recommendation for Assistance to Greece and Turkey” by the U.S. House of Representatives, the Greek Government and the Turkish Government both needed urgent financial and military aids from the United States. The ongoing Greek Civil War was a conflict between the capitalist government and the communist rebels. A neighbour of Greece, Turkey, was threatened by the Soviet Union to open up its strait to the communist regime. Provoked by the Greek Civil War and the Turkish Strait Crisis, the U.S. President Harry Truman introduced the Truman Doctrine, promising aid and support to any nations threatened by the Soviet Union, in March of 1947. Later in 1948, United States initiated the Marshall Plan, offering financial aids to sixteen nations in Europe to repair post-war damages. The Soviet Union was on the list of aid-needed countries, but the communist nation rejected the proposal. The only exception was Yugoslavia, who was financially blockaded by the USSR due to a deteriorating relationship that prompted the U.S.A to help.

 

^ COMECON v.s Marshall Plan. Note that Yugoslavia received 0.3 % of aid despite being an Eastern bloc member. (From learneurope.com)

 

Military wise, NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) was established in 1949. The treaty, specifically the Washington Treaty, created military bonds among those ratifying. When it was first founded, the aim of NATO was to prevent communist power from continuing its spreading. On the other hand, the Soviet Union adopted the Cominform policy in October 1947. Cominform was a coordinating body for communist countries, the Soviet Union, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Italian Communist Party, French Communist Party, Czechoslovakia, Romania, and Yugoslavia. The formation of the Cominform created a standoff situation between the communist bloc and those benefiting from the Marshall Plan and the Truman Doctrine. Additionally, in 1949, counteracting the Marshall Plan, the Soviet Union founded the Comecon, an organization strengthening economic relationships within eastern European nations.

Shifting the focus back to Korea, both sides were never in peace. Both Kim and Yi believed that they would win the outright victory should US or USSR agree to their attack. On June 25, 1950, North Korea invaded the south. 75,000 troops crossed the 38th parallel, officially declaring war with South Korea despite claiming that the ROK initiated the aggression. The United States reacted almost immediately after the invasion to fulfil its promise in the Truman Doctrine, sending troops to help defend South Korea. After a month of struggles, however, the United States was defeated at Osan, and the capital of South Korea was captured.

 

^ The 84th resolution passed by the UNSC in 1950 to dispatch troops to R.O.K. (From UN)

 

Soon, in the hope to shifting the tide, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 84, demanding military aid be sent to support South Korea. The peacekeeping troops commanded by US General Douglas MacArthur was composed of armies from multiple nations. The Soviet Union, a veto power, was absent from the voting procedure to protest against the lack of proper recognition of the People's Republic of China. The United States along with allies of the Soviet Union, Egypt, India, and Yugoslavia, abstained from the vote. Restoring the territory of South Korea, the UN troops continued north, invading the boundaries of North Korea.

When fighting came too close to the Yalu River, the border of the Korean Peninsula and Mainland China, the People's Republic of China was triggered to enter the war. As a communist regime, Communist China supported North Korea. With its help, DPRK had fought back and pushed the UN troops to nearly the 38th parallel, but the advancement stalled since it was hard for either side to reach the other end due to logistical difficulties. Peace talks between the two parties took place. Ultimately both sides were not able to reach an agreement. Following the 1952 U.S. Presidential Election, the country’s stance on the Korean War changed. The election of Eisenhower determined a greater inclination in ending the Korean War and withdrawing troops home.

  It is now May 1953. Operation Little Switch was performed a short time ago and both sides feel that it is now the best chance to achieve a peace agreement, despite refusal from both Koreas. Delegates, this is your one chance to shine, please spare no effort to bring peace back to this feuding territory!

 

TIMELINE OF EVENTS

May 1945> The Korean Peninsula was separated by the 38th parallel into socialist North Korea and capitalist South Korea.

 

March 12 1947> President Harry Truman vowed to combat communist force. With the ongoing Greek Civil War and the issues occurring in Turkey, the United States adopted the Truman Doctrine.

 

October 5 1947> The Soviet Union adopted the Cominform policy, a forum uniting the communist regimes.

 

June 3 1948> The Marshall Plan initiated by the United States came into effect.

 

January 1949> Soviet Union founded Comecon, an organization fostering economic relationships within eastern European nations, counteracting the Marshall Plan of the West. The stakes between the communist power and capitalist regimes continued to increase.

 

October 16 1949> The Greek Civil War ended, handing victory to the Capitalist government, through the aid of the United States, and the loss of communist resistance groups.

 

June 25th 1950> 75,000 North Korean troops crossed the 38th parallel. This was the official beginning of the Korean War.

 

June 27th 1950> The United States sent troops to support South Korea.

 

July 4th 1950> The North Korean troops defeated the United States at Osan.

 

July 7th 1950> Security Council Resolution 84 adopted in UN 476th meeting with no delegates opposing and the absence of the Soviet Union. The Resolution called upon a military force deployed to the Korean Peninsula under the command of the United States, assisting South Korea in defending its territory.

 

September 14 1950> The UN peacekeeping troops, led by U.S. General Douglas MacArthur restored the capital of South Korea.

 

October 1950> Communist China joined the Korean War, siding with North Korea.

 

February 1 1951> Peace talks started between both sides, but no consensus was reached. The war dragged on for two more years.

 

November 4 1952> Newly elected Republican President Dwight Eisenhower promised to end the war. The United States became more open towards peace talks.

 

MAJOR PARTIES INVOLVED (THE P5s)

China [Republic of China]

◎Key Terms: Maintaining SC Status; Seventh Fleet

  The Republic of China (“China” in security council) benefitted massively from the Korean War. Partnered with the USA and regarded as the “strongest ally in Asia”[3] by the United States in the early post-WWII era, the Truman administration soon found itself deeply disappointed with the corruption of Chiang’s leadership.[4] As the patience of USA over Nationalist China deteriorated, the Korean War emerged.

  Shortly before this point, the general opinion of Americans over Chiang was that he was a beloved leader,[5] and the failure of Chiang was caused by the inability of Americans to provide sufficient military support. This was further capitalized when Dean Acheson published “The China White Paper” in 1949, stating that “Americans did everything they could in China”, contradicting mainstream voices at that time.[6] The Republican soon used this to attack Truman, forcing him to make some compromise. Later when the war began, Chiang proposed sending three divisions to Korea.[7] Though rejected by Truman, the seventh fleet of US Marine was sent to block either side of the Strait of Taiwan from invading one another. While this ultimately strengthened the Communist’s hatred over the USA, it preserved peace for the following years[8], at the price of denying Chiang’s wish to recover mainland China.[9]

 

^ Dean Acheson on TIME magazine. His proposed “The China White Paper” was one of the most precise reports in American history, nonetheless, relatively unpopular at that time.

 

  As the war concludes and the rise of Communist China as a regional superpower becomes a reality, the delegates should consider what to do to maintain the progressively attenuated China representation seat held by the R.O.C at the present time (1953); additionally, the delegate needs to decide whether to be aggressive or conservative over an approach to Communist China and the newly elected Eisenhower administration, which is a republican regime that generally favors nationalists more.

France and United Kingdom

◎Key Terms: Recovery; Balance between assistance and autonomy; Communism Resistance

  If there was any more crucial turning point that marked the shift of western leadership from the UK to America, it was World War II.[10] As soon as the war ended, Britain faced an enormous amount of debt and loans that were required to be paid back to the Americans. To make matters worse, they have lost Jordan, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Israel, Myanmar and Ireland as colonies or territories prior to 1949.[11] It was the most critical threat to the UK since the loss of America, but miraculously, the UK soon found itself back on track as the United States wished them to continue playing the role of upholding American democratic values in Europe to stop the communism expansion, and drive the Marshall Plan implementation. Although in theory, the money received from the plan was a “loan”, only a very little portion of it was paid back to the USA.[12]

  For France, they were even more dependent. De Gaulle’s government started a massive nationalization programme concentrating on investment into the heavy industry, as well as the finance, energy and transport sectors. Women were granted the right to vote, and social security was established a year later. The post-war era drew a blueprint for the modern French doctrine.[13] A majority of these funds came from the Marshall plan, to the amount of 2.4 billion US dollars.[14]

  At this time, the UK and France were full members of the Security Council, somewhat indebted to the US and both countries were still adjusting to their reduced global importance. In the two countries, there were sharp debates on whether Korea was a priority interest for them. British prime minister Clement Attlee mused to this doubt: "Distant, yes, but nonetheless an obligation," implying that the Korean War was undesirable but nevertheless a duty for the country.[15] Thus, Britain and France sent BCFK (British Commonwealth Forces Korea) and BF-ONU (French Battalion of the United Nations Organization) respectively to the Korean War field. Though allied with USA-led UN forces, they were not trusted initially. However, as the war progressed, they gradually gained trust from US commanders. This was an important development to mark that the war wasn’t simply USA versus USSR. Some estimated 90,000 soldiers from the UK and about 3,000 from France took part in the battle.[16][17]

  The Labour party in the UK was perhaps the biggest loser in the Korean War. In 1951, the party led by Atlee lost to the conservative party since the British grew unhappy about Yi Seung-man’s authoritarian rule over the people of South Korea, and the Labour party was an obvious supporter of this brutal leader. Even the voices inside the Labour party were split on whether to continue in the Korean War.[18] Hence, despite winning considerably more votes, the LP lost its majority in the house of common and became opposite party once again.[19]

^ the re-elected Winston Churchill. He was the one who delivered the speech of Iron Curtain and one of the earliest pioneer who tried to stop the cold war from its initialization, nonetheless, failed. (Winston Churchill, photographed by Yousuf Karsh, 1941. Karsh/Woodfin Camp and Associates)

 

The re-elected Churchill did not withdraw troops but continued his struggle over anti-communism. His strategy was to establish summits between NATO and USSR to both maintain Britain's global role and establish constructive relations with communists. He was later left frustrated since leaders with whom he established personal relationships in World War II “were either dead (Roosevelt) or devoted to other priorities (Eisenhower), or soon to die (Stalin).” Only one Summit (Bermuda, 1953) was held, with minimal consequences.[20]

Owing to the facts mentioned above, it is important for the delegate to consider how UK and France shall position themselves in the era dominated by two mega powers. For the UK, the loss of colonies is still too much to bear, so the delegates must seek economic advantage from the resolution, as well as prevent communism from spreading into the UK itself. For France, as the representative of De Gaulle, the delegate must balance out between entertaining America and maintaining French autonomy, as France is not a sub-servant of America.[21] Thus, any policies that might surrender too much national power to Americans’ hands shall be carefully considered.

Union of Soviet Socialist Republics

◎Key Terms: Proxy War; Communism spreading

  The Korean War symbolized a defence of the front yard on the peninsula. The Marshall plan was still influencing Western Europe and the USSR felt particularly insecure over the United States. Soviets hoped this war could restrain the forces of the USA on the peninsula with Communist China’s forces, so as to relieve their [the USA] influence in Europe.[22] Additionally, the USSR felt a possibility for the US to secretly form a pact with Communist China, hence, they had every will to support this war and further the divide between these powers. However, these notions were all built on a basis: to not fight with the USA using the name of the USSR so as to prevent the "Cold War" from escalating into a "Hot War", and potentially, a nuclear war.[23]

Unlike what most believe, the USSR was not in total support of the war. This can be verified when the USSR looked at dropping out as the war turned into a burden. From the beginning, they urged Communist China to deploy soldiers “whenever needed” and promised to provide them with air strikes, and communist China agreed to the request because they wished the USSR would support their future plan to invade Taiwan and relinquish international authority to Beijing. However, when Communist China declared war, USSR didn’t send air troops. It was not until April 1951 did Stalin make the decision to send Soviet troops under the mark of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) or the North Korean Peoples' Army Air Force (KPAAF), this was due to equipment shortages and a lack of quality in Chinese air fighters, but the direct involvement of the USSR remained very limited.[24] As a result, the Chinese felt betrayed, and the relationship between USSR and Communist China dissipated quickly.[25]

^ A poster which marked the end of the coalition between USSR and communist China. Its origin can be dated back to Korean War. (Retrieved from Pinterest)

 

For Soviets, they generally had mixed feelings about this war throughout. Though the war tied down a huge portion of American forces and made China more dependent, it improved Mao's position in the communist world and weakened Soviet influence in North Korea. Accordingly, though the Soviets in a way favoured peace in Korea, it may not have been a top priority for them.[26]

  Thus, as the delegate of USSR, preventing NATO forces from bordering your homeland directly is the top priority of the negotiation.[27] Additionally, it is your responsibility to be aware of whether the resolution is hindering the spread of Communism, as that is what the capitalist always intend to do. In fact, if feasible, you may even not want the war to end as peacefully as it is currently anticipated to end. Instead, a last minute scramble may help to bide time and support the spread of new potential wars elsewhere.

[Recommended Additional Reading: The Wrong War: The Soviets and the Korean War, 1945-1953 by Joel R. Campbell (Type: Journal Extract; Accessibility: Open]

The United States of America

◎Key Terms: MacArthur and Truman; Communism containment

The United States provides the major resources and force the UN peacekeeping mission. While most claim that the USSR intentionally boycotted the UNSC council prior to the resolution of sending out in peacekeepers to the peninsula to avoid the responsibility of starting the war, others have different views. In fact, Stalin quickly realized the mistake he committed to not be present during the conference and tried to undo the mistake. In 1950, the USSR agreed to call for a wild election and perform full retreatment from the peninsula, however, it was the USA this time rejecting the proposal because they were in the midst of a major offensive against the North.[28]

Despite that, the stance of the United States was never unified. A huge portion of the Korean War was fought during the era of President Harry S. Truman, a Democrat who ended his office term with less than 23% of popular support.[29] At the early stage of the war, President Truman was pushed to appoint General MacArthur as the commander-in-chief, yet Truman only agreed reluctantly.[30] They held a relatively balanced manner initially, however, after Operation Chromite (the landing battle of Incheon), the balance ruptured.[31] General MacArthur insisted on carrying out his extremely perilous and aggressive attempts, disregarding all warnings, and eventually achieved military success. Since then, General MacArthur became more of a war hawk, dictating military strategies outside the advice of the President.[32] That quickly took its toll when the force of the UN crossed the 38th parallel line and charged northward, towards the Yaru River. General MacArthur insisted that China will not get involved in the war and concealed all the intelligence that inferred the anticipated entry of Communist China. Months later, the war fell back to approximately where it had started, at which time General MacArthur was dismissed.[33]

^General MacArthur. He prohibited reporters from taking his image freely, and he asked the reporter to always make the general appear “courageous”. (Retrieved from Pittsburg Post-Gazette)

 

The war fell into a period of attrition due to a lack of trust and the refusal to recognize each other by the two Koreas. By spring, 1951, both sides felt the situation in Korea had stabilized sufficiently to prevent a defeat, but neither side seemed able to win an absolute victory.[34] In 1952, General Dwight Eisenhower proposed a campaign titled “K1C2”. This slogan implied that he would soon end the Korean War if he was elected.[35] After Eisenhower took office, operation Little Switch was implemented. This operation, performed in April 1953, freed some prisoners of war (POWs) and ultimately boosted the trust among the blocs. Stalin’s death also lifted Mao’s freedom to negotiate and helped leveraged an end to the war.[36]

  As a representative from Eisenhower’s administration, you have to consider how to differ yourself from the Truman administration, including an attitude towards the China dispute, and find a way to contain the communists from spreading into new territories. It is also important for you to consider whether to prevent other wars similar to this form from starting, as the situation in Europe was not yet stabilized and regions like Vietnam have started to deviate.

  Your burden, however, doesn’t end here. Many nations joined the war for a cause, whether for economic reasons or military strategies. Thus, you have to investigate these motivations and determine whether their victory is harmful to your nation. Lastly, the soldiers that are going to return from the battlefield when the armistice is signed will surely cast a huge issue challenge to your post-war society, whether financially or institutionally. Plans are required.

[Recommended Additional Reading: The coldest winter: America and the Korean War by David Halberstam (Type: Paperback; Accessibility: Purchasable]

 

MINOR PARTIES INVOLVED

Chile

◎Key Terms: Allies consolidation; Material estratégico de Guerra

  Chile was labelled as one of the potential forces that initiated the start of the Korean War. However, despite rumors and even a report from the Washington Post, Chile never sent their troops to Korea. One of the reasons was that the country was worried about a seemingly inevitable WWIII and would rather focus their efforts on taking necessary precautions. The distance between them and the Peninsula was another issue. At the time, Latin Americans believed that logistical support of the war was their key to victory. Thus, the more remote continent of South America was not a good choice for joining in the Korean War. Despite reluctance to provide troops, twelve countries in South America including Chile eventually signed an agreement with the US to support the provision of weapons.[37]

  For Chile, the action from the USA during the Korean War surely consolidated its trust over the Americas, for that it demonstrated the United States will not perform appeasement over the expansion of communism. Therefore, as a member of NATO, Chile shall continue to support its strategic allies without affording too many casualties or finances to the cause.

[Recommended Additional Reading: Chile y la Guerra de Corea. Un episodio de la política exterior Chilena by Cristián Garay Vera y Javier Castro Arcosa (Type: Journal Extract; Accessibility: Open; Language: Spanish]

 

Colombia

◎Key Terms: Repay; USA Coalition

Colombia was the only Latin American country to join the war in a direct military role. Their mission, as an ally to America, was to help achieve a military victory and restore peace to the Peninsula. It was rather surprising that the Colombian government chose to join the combat when the country was in such a chaotic state. Three years prior, the assassination of Jorge Eliécer Gaitán had ignited a civil war in Colombia. Additionally, all other Latin American nations had chosen to sit out.[38] Nevertheless, because of the financial benefits it received from the United States and efforts to combat the so-called “Communist tyranny”, Columbia was added on to their Security Council member state, and had every willingness to support its allies.[39] Upon agreeing to support the UN intervention in Korea, Colombia formed a coalition and was attached to the US Infantry during the war.

For Colombia, the effort of dispatching groups to Asia wasn’t free. The delegate must seek financial compensation and urge the United States to favour Colombia more in many fields, including but not limited to the process of lawmaking, and diplomatic policies, since that was one of the initial targets Colombia tried to achieve from its promise to support anti-communist allies.

 

Cuba

◎Key Terms: Stabilization; Preventing up-rising

  Cuba in early 1953, the time of this conference, was boiling over with an atmosphere of revolution around the corner. President Batistia established an authoritarian regime years ago. During his first term as the President (9th), Batista maintained support from the Communist Party of Cuba, yet, in order to receive military and financial aid, he became much more anti-communist in his second presidential term. In order to achieve such support, Batistia carried out stricter controls of social security infrastructure, which was fueling an uprising against his authority. All of this disposed Cuba’s attention away from and limited the efforts of Cuba’s Korean War involvement.[40]

  As the representative of the Batistia administration, you must seek for a balance internally and externally. Continuing the strict anti-communist campaign may eventually lead to his expulsion and his government being overthrown, yet the support from the United States is crucial to Cuba’s success. Though the United States is likely to provide military support in the event of a coup d’etat, should a socialist-led revolution emerge, the republic still needs to be well prepared.

 

Denmark

◎Key Terms: Mediator

  Although most of the western bloc countries in 1953 completely went along with the United States’ policy, which was to recognize South Korea (ROK) as the sole legitimate regime, Denmark was a strange exception. One theory claimed that due to the strong left-wing influence of their society, Denmark recognized DPRK during the Korean War, even though their official diplomatic status was not established at that time.[41]

  Denmark did not engage officially in the Korean War combat since the two blocs had tense relations, and Denmark had to find a way to support the allies without being too aggressive towards the DPRK. Thus, MS Jutlandia was sent to Korea. It was a combined passenger and cargo ship aimed at providing medical and logistical support to their allies.[42]

  For Denmark, though it belonged to the Western bloc, the close distance between it and the USSR made it a country that required extreme precautions. When participating in this conference, it is important for Denmark to not completely lean to either side of the war in order to maintain their stance of preventing as escalation of conflict.

 

DPRK (North Korea)

◎Key Terms: Spread Communism; Unification

  In contemporary studies, the majority of researchers had agreed that DPRK was the one who started the war. If one wished to understand the reason behind this, they all must start with the personal history of Kim.

  Kim was a dedicated communist, the origin of which can be traced back to the Japanese colonial era. He was moved by the call of nationalism and thus believed that the tool provided by the Soviet Union can offer his true liberation of Korea. He was particularly made to suffer in agony when Korea escaped the control of Japan but once again divided the force of the USA. It was this nationalism\t motivation that made him continuously ask Stalin for permission to attack the South and unify the peninsula. It was Kim’s belief that Korea was best held together under the hands of communism.[43]

  Stalin had second thoughts at first, however, as what happened in China (the Chinese civil war) it proved that the soviet-way of a revolution by the non-capitalist class was duplicable. Additionally, rumour had it that the regime in the South has gradually lost its support among its people while the North surged. This was, however, only partially true, since Kim’s rule at that time was also unpopular.[44]

  Kim, therefore, was struck with confidence, primarily because he believed that the Americans would not join the conflict on the Peninsula owing to the speech Dean Acheson gave. The speech was interpreted by the Communist world as the USA would not intervene in situations in Korea as much as before. Additionally, Kim viewed this war as yet another civil war that mimicked the Chinese conflict. For the westerners, the 38th parallel line signified a border between two countries, even though one of them was not recognized. However, for Kim, the line simply meant a temporary compromise and should not be viewed as a permanent barrier against the promise he offered the people of the South.[45]

  The war initialized with a promising start for the North. Since MacArthur withdrew a huge portion of troops just months ago and focused on re-establishing a relationship with Japan, the US army that remained there were weak and barely equipped. Kim knew he had to conclude end the war rapidly, at least before more UN forces arrived in Pusan. Just days after, the DPRK forces drove towards the Nakdong River, whereby the defensive formation was finally small enough to be efficient for the UN army to hold. After a few major assaults being held back, the shift of balance became inevitable and Mao had to come to the rescue. Since then, Mao overtook the command from Kim, and the war became literally a Sino-American war.[46]

 ^ The position of Nakdong River. Losing such position would signify the fall of the last military stronghold the UN army possessed and practically signified the outright failure of the UN force. (By Amble)

 

  As a delegate of DPRK, it is important for you to convince the world of the necessity of your military operation. As DPRK is a firm supporter of communism, the delegate has the obligation to earn a resolution that can liberate the South from the hands of capitalism; whether concerning the new temporary cease-fire line, or even exchanging benefits. If all the conditions can’t be met, then a cease-fire is lowly favourable.

 

Greece

◎Key Terms: Self-determination towards anti-communism

  Greece was one of the troop contributors to the UN force of the Korean War. It had successfully escaped from Facist occupation during WWII and subsequently denied the up-rising of communist rebellions from overtaking power in the country in the late 1940s, partially due to the help of forces from the UK and the USA,[47] all thanks to the Truman Doctrine. Accordingly, the reasons for their participation were to demonstrate their military ability and their determination against communism around the world, in this case, North Korea.[48]

  As a delegate of Greece, it is vital for you to stand strong against anything that favours communism, even though that means it occasionally deviate from your ally in an effort to forcibly combat communism, as it is the top priority of the whole nation.

 

Japan

◎Key Terms: the firm supporter of America

  As one of the main enemies against the allies in World War II, it is surprising to see that Japan has managed to gain the support of the United States so quickly. Japan was under heavy control of the UN forces at the time, and it serves as the HQ of MacArthur, with his base of operations in Tokyo. The government published “Japan’s Position on the Korean War” shortly after the conflict erupted. In the letter, the prime minister assured full logistical support from the state. He not only held true to his promise but he also sent the troops to Korea in order to join the fight. While some of these movements were under the auspices of the United States, most of them were “claimed voluntarily”.[49]

  Thus, as a delegate of Japan, following the policies of the USA, is the golden principle. However, since you are not the delegate of the USA, you must still monitor whether following the direction of the USA may harm your own position in the region.

 

Lebanon

◎Key Terms: Israel issue

  Lebanon had limited to no involvement in the Korean War since the country was focusing its effort on the war with Israel, serving as an Arabic supporter. Inferably, Lebanon was not supportive of the western bloc initially. However, according to a document formed by a US envoy in Lebanon, Lebanon showed more favorable opinions towards the USA upon hearing their strong response to protect allies embroiled in the Korean War.[50]

Thus, as a delegate of Lebanon, your job is to be an observer in the conference, as your country does not have too many interests concerned in this event. Find the side that is more reasonable, and support them.

 

Pakistan

◎Key Terms: Forging support from the U.S.A; India

  Pakistan did not send ground troops to the Korean War but still tried their best to take part in assisting NATO forces. This was due to Pakistan’s prolonged conflict with India. Take the following extract as an example: “On 29 August 1950, Pakistan informed the Security Council that she could not spare any ground troops to help fight the war in Korea because of the grave dangers that confronted her.” According to The Korean War and US-Pakistani Relations, Pakistan “offered 5,000 tons of wheat as her contribution to the United Nations' war effort.” Additionally, Pakistan almost completely endorsed the viewpoint of the USA. In spite of the Korean War, Pakistan also pointed out that the construction of the Security Council required a serious reform because veto powers were undeniably overused, clearly meant to instigate the actions of the USSR. These were all done in the hope of exchanging their support for military action from the USA in their local conflicts with India.[51]

  As a delegate of Pakistan, it is crucial for you to continue following the policy of the USA in exchange for its support. However, if doing so cannot grants you an advantage, or the resolution clearly contradicts Pakistan’s country interest, then such method of operation shall be revised.

[Recommended Additional Reading: The Korean War and Us-Pakistani Relations by Harish Chandra Arya (Type: Journal Extract; Accessibility: Open]

 

R.O.K (South Korea)

◎Key Terms: Unification; Army Reformation

  The selection of Yi Seung-man, the president of the R.O.K by the Americans, was based on a desire they had, wishing to choose a proxy that embraced their democratic values. As a Christian studying in the United States after fleeing Japanese occupation, Yi was the perfect candidate. However, Yi was never as easy to control as the Americans initially expected. Despite being viewed as the absolute victim near the end of the Korean War by many, few took pity on the ROK prior to the beginning of the war. In fact, Yi was constantly provoking DPRK while conducting quite a few minor scale military conflicts of his own. It was the attitude Yi showed that cast doubt from the USA’s perspective. The United States hence withdrew a portion of their support and weapons for fear that Yi might start a war in an attempt to capture the North. Ironically, it was this event that made the early days of the Korean War more difficult for the league of allies.[52]

 ^ The difference with or without the help of the USA (cropped from goodreads.com)

 

  DPRK claimed that the ROK was the one who took the initiative to escalate the conflict. However, judging from how ill-prepared the ROK was and the delicate plan the DPRK had, it was an unlikely assumption.[53] The army of R.O.K fell quickly after the war had started; even with the forces of the UN, the ROK forces, designated to protect ally weaknesses, were next to paralyzed. They were essentially obsolete on the battlefield.

  Things, however, changed after the war stabilized in 1951. The United States had decided to train the ROK soldiers with ex-Japanese military instructors, and the army of ROK became much more capable of fighting in a war.[54] However, it is safe to conclude, that the ROK relied heavily on the USA throughout the conflict.

  Owing to such a circumstance, the negotiation position of the ROK is relatively weak. Even though the ROK still requires assistance from the USA, President Yi clearly does not like the idea of a ceasefire, since it would signify a compromise with the Communists in the North. Therefore, as a delegate of Yi’s administration, it is vital for you to try to gain more advantages under every aspect of resolution for the republic, or else, you shall try every means necessary to deny the ceasefire, at any cost.

 

PAST ACTIONS AND ATTEMPTS

United Nations General Assembly Resolution 377

  The USA was able to get the UN peacekeepers out in 1950, but the abstention of the USSR cannot be depended on in the future. The USSR returned to the UN and quickly blocked the US from performing any further actions. Later this year, with 52 voting for and 5 against, this resolution, also known as “United for Peace”, passed. This resolution signified that the UN, especially under the control of the Anglo-American bloc, held the power to perform an even harsher measure, and ultimately strengthened the bloc’s negotiation position.[55]

 

United Nations Security Council Resolution 88

  The Security Council voted on the 88th resolution in 1950, seeking for inviting a PRC’s representative to the Council. The vote was carried out via procedural voting and was adopted on an 8 to 2 (R.O.C and Cuba) split. However, until the end of the Korean War, only one more resolution was passed, and the attempt to communicate was unsuccessful. This was partly due to the return of the USSR, nullifying the function of the UNSC. The main operations, therefore, transferred from the Security Council to the General Assembly.[56]

 

The first Panmunjom peace talk

Beginning in 1951, the United Nations became open to peace talks. First taking place in January of 1951, the Korean Peace talks occurred in Panmunjom. The talk resolved several issues. North Korea was willing to move the border between North Korea and South Korea slightly north to the 38th parallel, and the United Nations agreed to return Kaesong to North Korea. Nonetheless, South Korea, who opposed the peace talks, was not willing to give up unifying the Korean Peninsula. Additionally, both sides could not come to a consensus on the issue of POWs.

 

The second Panmunjom peace talk

In 1952, both sides were brought together by another Panmunjom Peace Talk. Both sides agreed to the establishment of the NNSC (Neutral Nations Supervisory Council), allowing neutral nations to ensure that both North Korea and South Korea did not violate potential Armistice. Nonetheless, the conversation heated up when the nations were in the process of deciding which nations would hold supervisory roles. Poland, Switzerland, Czechoslovakia, and Sweden were agreed to be on the Council, but the DPRK’s nomination of the Soviet Union generated opposition from the ROK.

 

Operation Little Switch

  This operation was carried out in April 1953 as part of the truce talks that occurred in Panmunjom. Two blocs agreed to release POWs back to their respective origins. However, this event was layered in controversies, as some POWs were rumored to have been kept in spite of the agreement. Regardless, it was speculated that Stalin’s death triggered this unlikely acceptance from the Soviet, as this switch signified an improved trust among the two blocs.[57]

 

Questions to Consider

1.         What other measures can be performed other than what’s been done to strengthen trust between two blocs? How shall further hot wars be prevented?

2.         How shall the border be rearranged? Who shall be responsible for repairing the damage caused by war? What procedures shall be taken to prevent a similar event in Korea?

3.         How shall those involved in the war be treated/repaid?

 

Citations

[1] Security council, SC, UNSC, security, peace, sanctions, veto, resolution, president, united nations, UN, peacekeeping, peacebuilding, conflict resolution, prevention. (n.d.). Retrieved April 28, 2018, from http://www.un.org/en/sc/about/

[2] United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/377(V) 3 November 1950. Retrieved 2018-04-29.

[3] Tiezzi, S. (2015, August 21). When the US and China Were Allies. Retrieved from https://thediplomat.com/2015/08/when-the-us-and-china-were-allies/

[4] Papers of Matthew Connelly, Harry S. Truman Library

[5] The man who lost China. (2009, May 09). Retrieved from https://www.economist.com/node/13606318

During the second world war, he was a hero in the West, feted in Cairo in 1943 by Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt as the free world's great hope against Japan and the Communists in China.

[6] Rintz, William A. (2009) “The Failure of the China White Paper," Constructing the Past, 11/1: 8.

[7] C, Lin. (1992) “Legacy of the Korean War on US-Taiwan Relations”, Journal of Northeast Asian Studies, 11/40: 3

[8] J, Chen. (1992) “China's Changing Aims during the Korean War, 1950—1951”, The Journal of American-East Asian Relations, 1/1: 8-41

[9] W, Chai. (1999). Relations between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan: Overview and chronology. Asian Affairs: An American Review, 26/2: 59-76.

[10] Team, Novelguide. “Rise of Superpowers After WWII.” Novelguide, Novelguide.com, www.novelguide.com/reportessay/history/general-history/rise-superpowers-after-wwii.

[11] Baylis, John, et al. The Globalization of World Politics: an Introduction to International Relations. Oxford University Press, 2017.

[12] Harry Bayard Price, The Marshall Plan and its Meaning (1955), p. 106

[13] Davis, Mark. “How World War II Shaped Modern France.” Euronews, 5 May 2015, www.euronews.com/2015/05/05/how-world-war-ii-shaped-modern-france.

[14] MacMillan, Palgrave. The Marshall Plan Fifty Years Later. 2001.

[15] “UK | Britain's Forgotten War.” BBC News, BBC, 20 Apr. 2001, news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/1285708.stm.

[16] Weller, Robert. “Korean War, French Bayonets.” The Huffington Post, TheHuffingtonPost.com, 7 Dec. 2017, www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-weller/korean-war-french-bayonet_b_626571.html.

[17] “UK | Britain's Forgotten War.” BBC News, BBC, 20 Apr. 2001, news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/1285708.stm.

[18] “BBC Politics 97.” BBC News, BBC, 1997, www.bbc.co.uk/news/special/politics97/background/pastelec/ge51.shtml. The cost of the war had disastrous effects on Britain's economy and on Attlee's government.

[19] Ibid, Despite polling nearly 14 million votes, the record number of votes recorded by any British political party in any election to that time, Labour lost.

[20] “Winston Churchill and the Cold War.” National Churchill Museum | Winston Churchill and the Cold War, www.nationalchurchillmuseum.org/winston-churchill-and-the-cold-war.html.

[21] FRANCE. “De Gaulle Legacy: 'He Was Not Subservient to America'.” France 24, France 24, 9 Nov. 2010, www.france24.com/en/20101109-charles-de-gaulle-legacy-france-usa-international-not-subservient.

[22] Campbell, J. R. (2014). The Wrong War: The Soviets and the Korean War, 1945-1953 [Abstract]. International Social Science Review, 88(3), 1st ser., 2-2. Retrieved April 22, 2018. He[Stalin] nonetheless supported Chinese intervention in order to keep American forces away from the Soviet border.

[23] Xiaoming, Z. (2002). China, the Soviet Union, and the Korean War: From an Abortive Air War Plan to a Wartime Relationship [Abstract]. The Journal of Conflict Studies, 22(01). Retrieved April 22, 2018, from https://journals.lib.unb.ca/index.php/jcs/article/view/368/582. Yet, Soviet Premier Joseph Stalin's fear of a direct confrontation with the United States limited Soviet involvement and assistance in Korea.

[24] Campbell, J. R. (2014). The Wrong War: The Soviets and the Korean War, 1945-1953. International Social Science Review, 88(3), 1st ser., 20-20. Retrieved April 22, 2018. Stalin’s specific war messages include: encouragement of the North to keep fighting after the Incheon reversal, approval of training for North Korean pilots (but only in China)...

[25] X, Zhang. (2002). "China, the Soviet Union, and the Korean War: From an Abortive Air War Plan to a Wartime Relationship". Journal of Conflict Studies. Gregg Centre for the Study of War and Society, 22/1.

[26] Campbell, J. R. (2014). The Wrong War: The Soviets and the Korean War, 1945-1953 [Abstract]. International Social Science Review, 88(3), 1st ser., 20-20. Retrieved April 22, 2018.

[27] Ibid, 16-16. From the beginning of direct U.S. involvement in the war, the Soviets sought both an end to the war and preservation of North Korea as a friendly border buffer. When U.S. forces approached the Soviet frontier, the latter took precedence; when the two sides settled into a grinding stalemate, the former became more important.

[28] Campbell, J. R. (2014). The Wrong War: The Soviets and the Korean War, 1945-1953 [Abstract]. International Social Science Review, 88(3), 1st ser., 14-15. Retrieved April 22, 2018.

[29] Harry S. Truman: Impact and Legacy. (2017, July 28). Retrieved from https://millercenter.org/president/truman/impact-and-legacy

[30] Blair, C. (1989). The Forgotten War: America in Korea 1950-1953, p.79.

[31] Weintraub, Stanley, MacArthur’s War, p.162.

[32] Papers of James Webb, Harry S. Truman Library

[33] Truman relieves MacArthur of duties in Korea. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/truman-relieves-macarthur-of-duties-in-korea

[34] Millett, A. R. (2010). The War for Korea, 1950-1951: They Came From The North. The SHAFR Guide Online, 417-417. doi:10.1163/2468-1733_shafr_sim150060036

[35] Professor Kevin M. Kruse, Associate Chair of History at Princeton University, lecture dated 13 October 2008.

[36] OPERATION BIG SWITCH -- Formal Prisoner of War Exchange. (1954, February). Retrieved April 21, 2018, from http://www.koreacoldwar.org/history/bigswitch.html

[37] Vera, C. G., & Arcosa, J. C. (2016). Chile y la Guerra de Corea. Un episodio de la política exterior Chilena. REVISTA DE RELACIONES INTERNACIONALES, ESTRATEGIA Y SEGURIDAD, 12(1). doi:http:// dx.doi.org/10.18359/ries.2467

[38] The Korean connection, Colombia in the korean war. (2017, September 29). Retrieved April 23, 2018, from https://thebogotapost.com/2016/02/17/the-korean-connection/

[39] Bushnell, D. (2003). The making of modern Colombia: A nation in spite of itself. Berkeley: Univ. of California Press.

[40] Julia E. Sweig (2004). Inside the Cuban Revolution. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Harvard University Press. ISBN 978-0-674-01612-5.

[41] DPRK Diplomatic Relations. (2017, June 28). Retrieved April 23, 2018, from https://www.ncnk.org/resources/briefing-papers/all-briefing-papers/dprk-diplomatic-relations

[42] The JUTLANDIA Expedition (1951-1953):. (n.d.). Retrieved April 23, 2018, from http://www.navalhistory.dk/English/History/1945_1989/Jutlandia_Somebody.htm

[43] Baik, B. (1969). From birth to triumphant return to homeland. Tokyo: Miraisha.

[44] Halberstam, D. (2009). The coldest winter: America and the Korean War. London: Pan, p. 82

[45] Ibid, p. 81, 85

[46] Landenburg, T. (2007). Digital History. Retrieved April 24, 2018, from http://www.digitalhistory.uh.edu/teachers/lesson_plans/pdfs/unit10_23.pdf Chapter 3.

[47] Spyros P. Skouras: Memoirs (1893-1953). (2013). Stanford: Brave World.

[48] Smokovitis, D. (2009). Greece's contribution to the Korean War (1950–1955). Advances in Military Sociology: Essays in Honor of Charles C. Moskos,12. Retrieved April 23, 2018, from https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/S1572-8323(2009)000012A015.

[49] Japan's Korean War. (2015, June 23). Retrieved April 24, 2018, from http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/opinon/2015/06/137_181440.html

[50] The Minister in Lebanon (Pinkerton) to the Secretary of State. (n.d.). Retrieved April 24, 2018, from https://history.state.gov/historicaldocuments/frus1950v05/d626

[51] Arya, H. C. (1967). The Korean War and Us-Pakistani Relations. International Studies,9(3). Retrieved April 23, 2018, from http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/002088176709003040

[52] The Korean War (1950-1953). (n.d.). Retrieved April 24, 2018, from http://www.sparknotes.com/history/american/koreanwar/section3/

[53] Ibid.

[54] Pike, J. (n.d.). Military:R.O.K Army History. Retrieved April 24, 2018, from https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/army-history.htm

[55] United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/377(V) 3 November 1950.

[56] United Nations Security Council Resolution S/RES/88(I) 8 November 1950.

[57] Operation Little Switch (n.d.). From http://www.nj.gov/military/korea/factsheets/opswitch.html