As US and South Korea Strengthen Ties, a Look Back at the Korean War and Its Significance

The alliance between the United States and South Korea was ‘forged in blood’ during the fight to save the young republic from communism.

Members of U.S. Marine Corps Forces Korea pose in front of the stage following the 73rd Commemoration of the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, in Seoul, South Korea, on Oct. 12, 2023. 1st Lt. Tyler Judd, U.S. Marine Corps

The Israel—Hamas conflict has left South Korea on edge over reports that North Korea supplied Hamas with weapons used in its deadly attack on Oct. 7. Further, the surprise incursion over the heavily guarded Israeli border has raised concern about the security of  South Korea’s northern border, say experts.

In the face of those concerns, together with an advancing nuclear threat from North Korea, the United States–South Korea relationship is more important than ever.