When did North Korean forces cross the 38th parallel to start the Korean War?
North Korean forces crossed the 38th parallel on the 25th of June 1950. This invasion triggered the first major proxy war of the Cold War and claimed three million lives.
Common questions about South Korea
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who established the Joseon dynasty in 1392 and what was the capital renamed to?
General Yi Seong-gye established the Joseon dynasty in 1392. He moved the capital to Hanseong, which is now known as Seoul.
What was the average annual economic growth rate of South Korea between 1962 and 1994?
The South Korean economy grew at an average of 10% annually between 1962 and 1994. This period of rapid development is known as the Miracle on the Han River.
When did Chun Doo-hwan expand martial law to the whole nation of South Korea?
Chun Doo-hwan forced the Cabinet to expand martial law to the whole nation on the 18th of May 1980. This action closed universities and banned political activities.
Who was the first female president elected by South Korea in 2012?
South Korea elected Park Geun-hye as the first ever female president in 2012. She was the daughter of dictator Park Chung Hee.
When did Lee Jae-myung take office as the president of South Korea after Yoon Suk Yeol's removal?
Lee Jae-myung took office as the president of South Korea on the 4th of June 2025. He won the election to succeed Yoon Suk Yeol after Yoon was removed from office on the 4th of April 2025.