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{{short description|none}} <!-- "none" is preferred when the title is sufficiently descriptive; see [[WP:SDNONE]] -->
{{short description|History of Korea's military}}
{{South Korean armed forces sidebar}}
{{History of Korea}}
{{History of Korea}}


[[Korea]]'s military history spans thousands of years, beginning with the ancient nation of [[Gojoseon]] and continuing into the present day with the countries of [[North Korea]] and [[South Korea]], and is notable for its many successful triumphs over invaders.
⚫
'''[[Korea]]''''s military history spans thousands of years, beginning with the ancient nation of [[Gojoseon]] and continuing into the present day with the countries of [[North Korea]] and [[South Korea]], and is notable for its many successful triumphs over invaders. Throughout its history, Korea has boasted numerous exceptional leaders who gained outstanding victories against numerically superior enemies. Famed leaders credited with defending Korea against foreign invasions include: [[Eulji Mundeok]] of [[Goguryeo]], who defeated [[Sui dynasty|Sui China]] during the [[Goguryeo–Sui War]];<ref>{{cite book|last1=Kim|first1=Jinwung|title=A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict|date=2012|publisher=Indiana University Press|location=Bloomington, Indiana|isbn=978-0253000781|page=49|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QFPsi3IK8gcC&pg=PA49#v=onepage&q&f=false|accessdate=24 June 2016|language=en}}</ref> [[Yeon Gaesomun]] of Goguryeo, who defeated [[Emperor Taizong of Tang|Emperor Taizong]] of [[Tang dynasty|Tang China]] during the [[First campaign in the Goguryeo–Tang War|Goguryeo–Tang War]];<ref>{{cite book|last1=Kim|first1=Jinwung|title=A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict|date=2012|publisher=Indiana University Press|location=Bloomington, Indiana|isbn=978-0253000781|page=50|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QFPsi3IK8gcC&pg=PA50#v=onepage&q&f=false|accessdate=24 June 2016|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Miller|first=Owen|date=2014|title= Korean History in Maps|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=46OTBQAAQBAJ|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-1107098466|page=29|accessdate=25 June 2016}} "After the Tang dynasty succeeded the Sui, the second Tang emperor also tried to bring Goguryeo under its control, launching an unsuccessful attack in 645. Goguryeo repelled a second invasion in 662 with victories by the general Yeon Gaesomun."</ref> [[Gang Gam-chan]] of [[Goryeo]], who defeated the [[Khitan Empire]] during the [[Third conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War|Goryeo-Khitan War]];<ref>{{cite book|last=Kim|first=Djun Kil|date=May 30, 2014|title=The History of Korea, 2nd Edition|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IgxvBAAAQBAJ|publisher=ABC-CLIO|isbn=978-1610695824|page=66}} "Later, in 1018, however, a third large-scale invasion from the Khitan was thwarted by Goryeo forces led by the general Gang Gamchan (948-1031). The Khitan thereafter gave up trying to subjugate Goryeo by force."</ref> [[Choe Yeong]] and [[Yi Seong-gye]] of Goryeo, who defeated the [[Red Turban Rebellion|Red Turbans]], who later established [[Ming dynasty|Ming China]], during the [[Red Turban invasions of Goryeo|Red Turban Invasions]];<ref>{{cite web|title=Choe Yeong, the Victorious General of Goryeo Dynasty|url=http://world.kbs.co.kr/english/archive/program/program_koreanstory.htm?no=23640|website=KBS World Radio|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Lee|first1=Ki-Baik|title=A New History of Korea|date=1984|publisher=Harvard University Press|location=Cambridge, Massachusetts|isbn=978-0674615762|page=165}} "Yi Sŏng-gye himself won advancement through his success in the numerous battles of his day. He played a major role in repulsing the attacks of the Red Turban bandits and Japanese marauders, as well as in the campaign against the Yüan Tung-ning Commandery in Manchuria."</ref> and [[Yi Sun-shin]] of [[Joseon]], who defeated the Japanese at sea during the [[Imjin War]].<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Gilbert|first1=Marc Jason|title=Admiral Yi Sun–Shin, the Turtle Ships, and Modern Asian History|journal=Education About Asia|date=Spring 2007|volume= 12|issue= 1|page=34|url=http://aas2.asian-studies.org/EAA/EAA-Archives/12/1/772.pdf|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> Other notable leaders include: [[Gwanggaeto the Great]] of Goguryeo, who created a great empire in [[Northeast Asia]] through conquest,<ref>{{cite book|last1=Kim|first1=Jinwung|title=A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict|date=2012|publisher=Indiana University Press|location=Bloomington, Indiana|isbn=978-0253000781|page=35|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QFPsi3IK8gcC&pg=PA35#v=onepage&q&f=false|accessdate=24 June 2016|language=en}}</ref> and subjugated the other Korean kingdoms of [[Baekje]], [[Silla]] and [[Geumgwan Gaya|Gaya]] to bring about a brief unification of the [[Three Kingdoms of Korea]];<ref>{{cite book|last1=Lee|first1=Hyun-hee|last2=Park|first2=Sung-soo|last3=Yoon|first3=Nae-hyun|year=2005|title=New History of Korea|publisher=Jimoondang|isbn=9788988095850|pages=199–202}}</ref> [[Geunchogo of Baekje|Geunchogo]] of Baekje, who captured [[Pyongyang]] and established overseas territories to control much of the [[Korean peninsula]] and dominate the seas;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Shin|first1=Hyoung Sik|title=A Brief History of Korea|date=March 31, 2005|publisher=Ewha Womans University Press|location=Seoul, Korea|isbn=978-8973006199|pages=29–30}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Lee|first1=Ki-Baik|title=A New History of Korea|date=1984|publisher=Harvard University Press|location=Cambridge, Massachusetts|isbn=978-0674615762|page=37}} "Then, in 371, Paekche struck northward into the Koguryŏ domain as far as Pyŏngyang, killing the Koguryŏ king, Kogugwŏn, in the course of the campaign. Paekche thus came to hold sway over a sizeable portion of the Korean Peninsula, including all the modern provinces of Kyŏnggi, Ch'ungch'ŏng, and Chŏlla, as well as parts of Hwanghae and Kangwŏn. Furthermore, King Kŭn Ch'ogo solidified his international position by making overtures to the Eastern Chin state in the Yangtze river region and to the Wa people in Japan."</ref> [[Munmu of Silla|Munmu]] and [[Kim Yu-sin]] of Silla, who united the Three Kingdoms of Korea and defeated Tang China to gain complete control of the Korean peninsula;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Graff|first1=David A.|title=Medieval Chinese Warfare, 300-900|date=2002|publisher=Routledge|location=London|isbn=9780415239554|page=201}} "In 674 and 675 Tang forces under Liu Rengui attacked Silla itself. Chinese histories record that Liu was victorious and forced the king of Silla to sue for peace, while Korean historians report the defeat of the Chinese armies. The fact that the Tang government found it necessary to withdraw the headquarters of its Korean protectorate to the Liao River valley in the early months of 676 suggests that the Korean version is probably closer to the truth. Silla was left in uncontested control of almost the whole of the Korean peninsula, and there was no great Tang campaign to recover what had been won with such difficulty and so quickly lost."</ref> [[Dae Jo-yeong]], who created [[Balhae]] from Goguryeo's ashes and reconquered Goguryeo lands lost during the Goguryeo-Tang War;<ref>{{cite web|title=Daejoyeong, the Father of Balhae|url=http://world.kbs.co.kr/english/archive/program/program_koreanstory.htm?no=21375|website=KBS World Radio|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> [[Jang Bogo]] of [[Later Silla]], who created a maritime empire and commanded a powerful fleet;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Choi|first1=Wan Gee|title=The Traditional Ships of Korea|date=2006|publisher=Ewha Womans University Press|isbn=978-8973006830|pages=66–67|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2tXsoSb37kQC&pg=PA66#v=onepage&q&f=false|accessdate=25 June 2016}} "Using his official position and his immense military influence, Jang Bo-go amassed substantial wealth by controlling maritime trade between Silla, Tang and Japan. The famous American scholar of Asian history, Edwin O. Reischauer hailed Jang Bo-go as the trade prince of the maritime commerce empire. As Jang emerged as a formidable force in the sea, high-ranking officials in the Silla capital, Gyeongju, could no longer ignore him. Jang Bo-go ruled his domain with absolute political, military and economic autonomy."</ref> [[Taejo of Goryeo|Wang Geon]], who united the [[Later Three Kingdoms of Korea]] and established Goryeo as the successor to Goguryeo;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Nahm|first1=Andrew C.|title=A Panorama of 5000 Years: Korean History|date=2005|publisher=Hollym International Corporation|location=Seoul|isbn=978-0930878689|page=38|edition=Second revised}} "General Wang Kŏn founded a new dynasty in 918. He named it Koryŏ, symbolizing that it was the successor to Koguryŏ."</ref> and [[Yun Gwan]] of Goryeo, who defeated the [[Jurchens]] and constructed nine fortresses in [[Manchuria]].<ref>{{cite book|last1=Eglan|first1=Jared|title=Beasts of War: The Militarization of Animals|date=2015|publisher=Lulu.com|isbn=978-1329516137|page=40|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rDCKCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA40#v=onepage&q&f=false|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref>


Throughout its history, Korea has boasted numerous exceptional leaders who gained outstanding victories against numerically superior enemies. Famed leaders credited with defending Korea against foreign invasions include: [[Eulji Mundeok]] of [[Goguryeo]], who defeated [[Sui dynasty|Sui China]] during the [[Goguryeo–Sui War]];<ref>{{cite book|last1=Kim|first1=Jinwung|title=A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict|date=2012|publisher=Indiana University Press|location=Bloomington, Indiana|isbn=978-0253000781|page=49|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QFPsi3IK8gcC&pg=PA49|access-date=24 June 2016|language=en}}</ref> [[Yeon Gaesomun]] of Goguryeo, who defeated [[Emperor Taizong of Tang|Emperor Taizong]] of [[Tang dynasty|Tang China]] during the [[First campaign in the Goguryeo–Tang War|Goguryeo–Tang War]];<ref>{{cite book|last1=Kim|first1=Jinwung|title=A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict|date=2012|publisher=Indiana University Press|location=Bloomington, Indiana|isbn=978-0253000781|page=50|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QFPsi3IK8gcC&pg=PA50|access-date=24 June 2016|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Miller|first=Owen|date=2014|title= Korean History in Maps|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=46OTBQAAQBAJ|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-1107098466|page=29|access-date=25 June 2016}} "After the Tang dynasty succeeded the Sui, the second Tang emperor also tried to bring Goguryeo under its control, launching an unsuccessful attack in 645. Goguryeo repelled a second invasion in 662 with victories by the general Yeon Gaesomun."</ref> [[Kang Kam-ch'an]] of [[Goryeo]], who defeated the [[Khitan Empire]] during the [[Third conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War|Goryeo-Khitan War]];<ref>{{cite book|last=Kim|first=Djun Kil|date=May 30, 2014|title=The History of Korea, 2nd Edition|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IgxvBAAAQBAJ|publisher=ABC-CLIO|isbn=978-1610695824|page=66}} "Later, in 1018, however, a third large-scale invasion from the Khitan was thwarted by Goryeo forces led by the general Gang Gamchan (948-1031). The Khitan thereafter gave up trying to subjugate Goryeo by force."</ref> [[Ch'oe Yŏng]] and [[Yi Sŏng-gye]] of Goryeo, who defeated the [[Red Turban Rebellion|Red Turbans]] during the [[Red Turban invasions of Goryeo|Red Turban Invasions]];<ref>{{cite web|title=Choe Yeong, the Victorious General of Goryeo Dynasty|url=http://world.kbs.co.kr/english/archive/program/program_koreanstory.htm?no=23640|website=KBS World Radio|access-date=25 June 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Lee|first1=Ki-Baik|title=A New History of Korea|date=1984|publisher=Harvard University Press|location=Cambridge, Massachusetts|isbn=978-0674615762|page=165}} "Yi Sŏng-gye himself won advancement through his success in the numerous battles of his day. He played a major role in repulsing the attacks of the Red Turban bandits and Japanese marauders, as well as in the campaign against the Yüan Tung-ning Commandery in Manchuria."</ref> and [[Yi Sun-shin]] of [[Joseon]], who defeated the Japanese at sea during the [[Imjin War]].<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Gilbert|first1=Marc Jason|title=Admiral Yi Sun–Shin, the Turtle Ships, and Modern Asian History|journal=Education About Asia|date=Spring 2007|volume= 12|issue= 1|page=34|url=http://aas2.asian-studies.org/EAA/EAA-Archives/12/1/772.pdf|access-date=25 June 2016}}</ref>
⚫
Today, both [[North Korea]] and [[South Korea]] field some of the largest and most lethal armies in the world. On one hand, North Korea is widely suspected of having [[nuclear weapons]], as well as other weapons of mass destruction. South Korea, for its part, is equipped with a sophisticated conventional military with state-of-the-art weapons. In addition, South Korean troops actively participated in the [[Vietnam War]], contributing the second largest foreign military contingent after the United States,<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Baek|first1=Glenn|title=A Perspective on Korea’s Participation in the Vietnam War|journal=The Asan Institute for Policy Studies|date=April 10, 2013|issue=53|url=http://en.asaninst.org/contents/issue-brief-no-53-a-perspective-on-koreas-participation-in-the-vietnam-war/|accessdate=26 June 2016}}</ref> and are currently serving in various UN peacekeeping missions around the world. The [[Republic of Korea Armed Forces|South Korean military]] enjoys military alliances with other countries, particularly the [[United States]].

⚫
Other notable leaders include: [[Gwanggaeto the Great]] of Goguryeo, who created a great empire in [[Northeast Asia]] through conquest,<ref>{{cite book|last1=Kim|first1=Jinwung|title=A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict|date=2012|publisher=Indiana University Press|location=Bloomington, Indiana|isbn=978-0253000781|page=35|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=QFPsi3IK8gcC&pg=PA35|access-date=24 June 2016|language=en}}</ref> and subjugated the other Korean kingdoms of [[Baekje]], [[Silla]] and [[Geumgwan Gaya|Gaya]] to bring about a brief unification of the [[Three Kingdoms of Korea]];<ref>{{cite book|last1=Lee|first1=Hyun-hee|last2=Park|first2=Sung-soo|last3=Yoon|first3=Nae-hyun|year=2005|title=New History of Korea|publisher=Jimoondang|isbn=9788988095850|pages=199–202}}</ref> [[Geunchogo of Baekje]], who captured [[Pyongyang]] and established overseas territories to control much of the [[Korean peninsula]] and dominate the seas;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Shin|first1=Hyoung Sik|title=A Brief History of Korea|date=March 31, 2005|publisher=Ewha Womans University Press|location=Seoul, Korea|isbn=978-8973006199|pages=29–30}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last1=Lee|first1=Ki-Baik|title=A New History of Korea|date=1984|publisher=Harvard University Press|location=Cambridge, Massachusetts|isbn=978-0674615762|page=37}} "Then, in 371, Paekche struck northward into the Koguryŏ domain as far as Pyŏngyang, killing the Koguryŏ king, Kogugwŏn, in the course of the campaign. Paekche thus came to hold sway over a sizeable portion of the Korean Peninsula, including all the modern provinces of Kyŏnggi, Ch'ungch'ŏng, and Chŏlla, as well as parts of Hwanghae and Kangwŏn. Furthermore, King Kŭn Ch'ogo solidified his international position by making overtures to the Eastern Chin state in the Yangtze river region and to the Wa people in Japan."</ref> [[Munmu of Silla|Munmu]] and [[Kim Yu-sin]] of Silla, who united the Three Kingdoms of Korea and defeated Tang China to gain complete control of the Korean peninsula;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Graff|first1=David A.|title=Medieval Chinese Warfare, 300–900|date=2002|publisher=Routledge|location=London|isbn=9780415239554|page=201}} "In 674 and 675 Tang forces under Liu Rengui attacked Silla itself. Chinese histories record that Liu was victorious and forced the king of Silla to sue for peace, while Korean historians report the defeat of the Chinese armies. The fact that the Tang government found it necessary to withdraw the headquarters of its Korean protectorate to the Liao River valley in the early months of 676 suggests that the Korean version is probably closer to the truth. Silla was left in uncontested control of almost the whole of the Korean peninsula, and there was no great Tang campaign to recover what had been won with such difficulty and so quickly lost."</ref> [[Dae Jo-yeong]], who created [[Balhae]] from Goguryeo's ashes and reconquered Goguryeo lands lost during the Goguryeo-Tang War;<ref>{{cite web|title=Daejoyeong, the Father of Balhae|url=http://world.kbs.co.kr/english/archive/program/program_koreanstory.htm?no=21375|website=KBS World Radio|access-date=25 June 2016}}</ref> [[Jang Bogo]] of [[Later Silla]], who created a maritime empire and commanded a powerful fleet;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Choi|first1=Wan Gee|title=The Traditional Ships of Korea|date=2006|publisher=Ewha Womans University Press|isbn=978-8973006830|pages=66–67|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2tXsoSb37kQC&pg=PA66|access-date=25 June 2016}} "Using his official position and his immense military influence, Jang Bo-go amassed substantial wealth by controlling maritime trade between Silla, Tang and Japan. The famous American scholar of Asian history, Edwin O. Reischauer hailed Jang Bo-go as the trade prince of the maritime commerce empire. As Jang emerged as a formidable force in the sea, high-ranking officials in the Silla capital, Gyeongju, could no longer ignore him. Jang Bo-go ruled his domain with absolute political, military and economic autonomy."</ref> [[Taejo of Goryeo|Wang Kŏn]], who united the [[Later Three Kingdoms of Korea]] and established Goryeo as the successor to Goguryeo;<ref>{{cite book|last1=Nahm|first1=Andrew C.|title=A Panorama of 5000 Years: Korean History|date=2005|publisher=Hollym International Corporation|location=Seoul|isbn=978-0930878689|page=[https://archive.org/details/panoramaof5000ye0000nahm/page/38 38]|edition=Second revised|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/panoramaof5000ye0000nahm/page/38}} "General Wang Kŏn founded a new dynasty in 918. He named it Koryŏ, symbolizing that it was the successor to Koguryŏ."</ref> and [[Yun Kwan]] of Goryeo, who defeated the [[Jurchens]] and constructed nine fortresses in [[Manchuria]].<ref>{{cite book|last1=Eglan|first1=Jared|title=Beasts of War: The Militarization of Animals|date=2015|publisher=Lulu.com|isbn=978-1329516137|page=40|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=rDCKCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA40|access-date=25 June 2016}}</ref>

During the [[Cold War]], South Korean troops actively participated in the [[Vietnam War]], contributing the second largest foreign military contingent after the United States.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Baek|first1=Glenn|title=A Perspective on Korea's Participation in the Vietnam War|journal=The Asan Institute for Policy Studies|date=April 10, 2013|issue=53|url=http://en.asaninst.org/contents/issue-brief-no-53-a-perspective-on-koreas-participation-in-the-vietnam-war/|access-date=26 June 2016}}</ref> North Korea also contributed soldiers, military equipment and advisors to several conflicts during the Cold War in support of the [[Communist bloc]], including the [[Yom Kippur War]], [[Ethiopian Civil War]], and [[Ugandan Bush War]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thediplomat.com/2019/10/uganda-north-koreas-african-ally/|website=thediplomat.com|date=30 October 2019|access-date=20 May 2024|title=Uganda: North Korea’s African Ally|last=Bone|first=R. Maxwell|publisher=Diplomat Media}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.piie.com/blogs/north-korea-witness-transformation/north-korean-adventures-horn-africa|title=North Korean Adventures in the Horn of Africa|last=Noland|first=Marcus|date=12 September 2014|access-date=20 May 2024|website=www.piie.com|publisher=PIIE}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/north-korean-israeli-shadow-war|title=The North Korean-Israeli Shadow War|date=9 September 2019|access-date=20 May 2024|last=Solomon|first=Jay|website=www.washingtoninstitute.org|publisher=The Washington Institute for Near East Policy}}</ref>

⚫
Today, both [[North Korea]] and [[South Korea]] field some of the largest and most lethal armies in the world. On one hand, North Korea is widely suspected of having [[nuclear weapons]], as well as other weapons of mass destruction. South Korea, for its part, is equipped with a sophisticated conventional military with state-of-the-art weapons. South Korea currently serves in several UN peacekeeping missions around the world. The [[Republic of Korea Armed Forces|South Korean military]] enjoys military alliances with other countries, particularly the [[United States]].


==Timeline==
==Timeline==
===Gojoseon===
===Gojoseon===
* [[Gojoseon–Yan War]] - 4th century B.C.
* [[Gojoseon–Yan War]] – 4th century B.C.
* [[Han conquest of Gojoseon]] – 109–108 BC
* [[Han conquest of Gojoseon]] – 109–108 BC


Line 18: Line 23:
====Goguryeo====
====Goguryeo====
* Continuous battles with the [[Four Commanderies of Han]]
* Continuous battles with the [[Four Commanderies of Han]]
** [[Battle of Jwa-won]]
** [[Battle of Jwawon]]
** [[Xuantu]] Conquest – 302
** [[Xuantu]] Conquest – 302
** [[Lelang]] Conquest – 313
** [[Lelang]] Conquest – 313
Line 38: Line 43:
* [[Conquest of Gaya by Silla|Campaign with Silla]]
* [[Conquest of Gaya by Silla|Campaign with Silla]]


===Three Kingdoms Period===
===Three Kingdoms period===
====Goguryeo campaigns====
====Goguryeo campaigns====
* Campaign of [[Geunchogo of Baekje]]: Conquest of [[Pyongyang]]
* Campaign of [[Geunchogo of Baekje]]: Conquest of [[Pyongyang]]
* Baekje Campaign of [[Gwanggaeto the Great of Goguryeo]]
* Baekje Campaign of [[Gwanggaeto the Great]] of Goguryeo
* Attack from [[Gwanggaeto the Great of Goguryeo]]
* Attack from [[Gwanggaeto the Great]] of Goguryeo
** [[Gaya Confederacy]] Campaign
** [[Gaya confederacy]] Campaign
** [[Goguryeo–Yamato War]]
** [[Goguryeo–Yamato War]]
* Campaigns of [[Gwanggaeto the Great of Goguryeo]]
* Campaigns of [[Gwanggaeto the Great]] of Goguryeo
** [[Xianbei]] Campaign
** [[Xianbei]] Campaign
** [[Malgal]] Conquest
** [[Malgal]] Conquest
** [[Khitan people|Khitan]] Conquest
** [[Khitan people|Khitan]] Conquest
** [[Buyeo Kingdom|Buyeo]] Conquest
** [[Buyeo]] Conquest


====Goguryeo, Baekje-Silla alliance War====
====Goguryeo, Baekje–Silla Alliance War====
* Campaign of [[Jangsu of Goguryeo]] against Silla and Baekje
* Campaign of [[Jangsu of Goguryeo]] against Silla and Baekje
* Invasion of Baekje-[[Silla]] alliance – 475
* Invasion of Baekje–[[Silla]] alliance – 475
* Campaign of Baekje-Silla-[[Gaya Confederacy|Gaya]] armies against Goguryeo
* Campaign of Baekje–Silla–[[Gaya confederacy|Gaya]] armies against Goguryeo
* [[Battle of Gwansan]] – 554
* [[Battle of Gwansan]] – 554
* [[Gaya Confederacy]] Annexation – 532/562
* [[Gaya confederacy]] Annexation – 532/562


====Other conflicts====
====Other conflicts====
* The Baekje Conquest of [[Jejudo|Tamna]] – 498
* The Baekje Conquest of [[Tamna]] – 498
* The Silla Conquest of [[Ulleung County|Usan]] – 512
* The Silla Conquest of [[Ulleung County|Usan]] – 512


====Goguryeo-Sui War (598–614)====
====Goguryeo–Sui War (598–614)====
* [[Goguryeo-Sui War]] – 598
* [[Goguryeo–Sui War]] – 598


====Goguryeo-Tang War (645–668)====
====Goguryeo–Tang War (645–668)====
* [[First campaign in the Goguryeo–Tang War]] – 645
* [[First conflict of the Goguryeo–Tang War]] – 645
** [[Battle of Ansi]] — 645
** [[Battle of Mount Jupil]] — 645
* [[Battle of Sasu]] — 662
* [[Battle of Geumsan]] — 667
''Including Goguryeo and Baekje alliance against Tang and Silla''
''Including Goguryeo and Baekje alliance against Tang and Silla''


Line 72: Line 81:
* [[Baekje–Tang War]] – 660
* [[Baekje–Tang War]] – 660


====Silla-Tang War (668–676)====
====Silla–Tang War (668–676)====
* Other rebellions from Baekje and Goguryeo people
* Other rebellions from Baekje and Goguryeo people
* Battle of Maeso fortress
* Battle of Maeso fortress


===North South States Period===
===North South States period===


====Balhae====
====Balhae====
Line 86: Line 95:
====Silla (676–935)====
====Silla (676–935)====
* Campaigns of [[Jang Bogo]]
* Campaigns of [[Jang Bogo]]
* [[Kim Heonchang]] Rebellion
* [[Kim Hŏn-ch'ang]] Rebellion
* [[Red Pants Rebellion]]
* [[Red Pants Rebellion]]
* [[Ungjin Commandery]] Conquest – 676
* [[Ungjin Commandery]] Conquest – 676
Line 92: Line 101:
* [[Protectorate General to Pacify the East]] Conquest – 773
* [[Protectorate General to Pacify the East]] Conquest – 773
* [[Ajagae]] Rebellion
* [[Ajagae]] Rebellion
* [[Gihwon]] Rebellion
* [[Ki Hwŏn]] Rebellion
* [[Yanggil]] Rebellion
* [[Yang Kil]] Rebellion
* [[Later Three Kingdoms]] – 900~936
* [[Later Three Kingdoms]] – 900~936


===Goryeo Dynasty===
===Goryeo dynasty===
====Goryeo wars====
====Goryeo wars====
* Northern Expansion of Manchuria
* Northern Expansion of Manchuria
Line 103: Line 112:
** [[Second conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War]]
** [[Second conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War]]
** [[Third conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War]] (see also ''[[Battle of Gwiju]]'')
** [[Third conflict in the Goryeo–Khitan War]] (see also ''[[Battle of Gwiju]]'')
* Campaigns of General [[Yun Gwan]] against the [[Jurchens]] (see also [[Korean-Jurchen border conflicts]])
* Campaigns of General [[Yun Kwan]] against the [[Jurchens]] (see also [[Korean-Jurchen border conflicts]])
* [[Mongol invasions of Korea]]
* [[Mongol invasions of Korea]]
* [[Sambyeolcho Rebellion]]
* [[Sambyeolcho Rebellion]]
Line 112: Line 121:
* [[Ssangseong Prefectures|Ssangseong]] Conquest – 1356
* [[Ssangseong Prefectures|Ssangseong]] Conquest – 1356
* [[Red Turban invasions of Goryeo]]
* [[Red Turban invasions of Goryeo]]
* [[Liaoyang]] campaign - 1370
* [[Liaoyang]] campaign – 1370
* War against [[Wokou|Japanese piracy]]
* War against [[Wokou|Japanese piracy]]
** 1st [[Tsushima Island|Tsushima]] invasion
** 1st [[Tsushima Island|Tsushima]] invasion


====Internal strife====
====Internal strife====
* [[Yi Ja-gyeom]] Rebellion
* [[Yi Cha-gyŏm]] Rebellion
* [[Myo Cheong]] Rebellion
* [[Myo Cheong]] Rebellion
* [[Military Coup of 1170]]
* [[Military Coup of 1170]]
* [[Kim Bodang]] Rebellion
* [[Kim Po-dang]] Rebellion
* [[Jo Wichong]] Rebellion
* [[Cho Wi-ch'ong]] Rebellion
* Mangi and Mangsoi Rebellion
* Mangi and Mangsoi Rebellion
* Kim Sami and Hyosim Rebellion
* Kim Sami and Hyosim Rebellion
Line 127: Line 136:
* [[Wihwado Retreat]]
* [[Wihwado Retreat]]


===Joseon Dynasty===
===Joseon dynasty===
====Conflicts====
====Conflicts====
* 2nd Tsushima Conquest ([[Ōei Invasion|Gihae Eastern expedition]]) – 1419
* 2nd Tsushima Conquest ([[Ōei Invasion|Gihae Eastern expedition]]) – 1419
* [[Japanese riots in Southeast Korea (1510)]]
* [[Japanese riots in Southeast Korea (1510)]]
* [[Japanese invasions of Korea|Seven Year War]] (Imjin) – 1592–1598
* [[Japanese invasions of Korea (1592–1598)|Seven Year War]] (Imjin) – 1592–1598
* Northern expedition against Manchus (see also [[Korean-Jurchen border conflicts]])
* Northern expedition against Manchus (see also [[Korean-Jurchen border conflicts]])
* [[Later Jin invasion of Joseon]] – 1627
* [[Later Jin invasion of Joseon]] – 1627
Line 139: Line 148:
* [[General Sherman Incident]]
* [[General Sherman Incident]]
* [[United States expedition to Korea]]
* [[United States expedition to Korea]]
* [[Ganghwa Island incident]]


====Nationwide Internal strifes====
====Nationwide Internal strifes====
* [[Yi Si-ae's Rebellion]]
* [[Yi Gwal's Rebellion]]
* [[Hong Gyeong-Rae's Rebellion]]
* [[Imo Incident]]
* [[Imo Incident]]
* [[Donghak Peasant Revolution]]
* [[Donghak Peasant Revolution]]

===Korean Empire===
====Conflicts====
* [[Korean invasion of Manchuria]]
* [[Namdaemun Battle]]


===1910–1945: Colonial period===
===1910–1945: Colonial period===
Line 148: Line 166:
** [[Battle of Qingshanli]]
** [[Battle of Qingshanli]]
** [[Battle of Fengwudong]]
** [[Battle of Fengwudong]]
** [[Free City Incident]]
* Actions of [[Korean Liberation Army]]
* Actions of [[Korean Liberation Army]]
** [[South-East Asian theatre of World War II]]


===After 1945===
===After 1945===
* [[Korean War]]
* [[Korean War]]
* [[Vietnam War]]
** [[Korean DMZ Conflict]]
* [[Vietnam War]]
** [[South Korea in the Vietnam War]]
* [[Gulf War]]
* [[Gulf War]]
* [[War in Afghanistan (1978–present)|War in Afghanistan]]
* [[War in Afghanistan (1978–present)|War in Afghanistan]]
* [[Iraq War]]
* [[Iraq War]]
⚫
* [[North Korea and weapons of mass destruction]]


==See also==
==See also==
* [[History of Korea]]
* [[History of Korea]]
* [[Military of North Korea]]
* [[Military of South Korea]]
* [[Military of South Korea]]
* [[Naval history of Korea]]
* [[Naval history of Korea]]
* [[List of battles of Korea]]
* [[List of battles of Korea]]
* [[List of wars involving South Korea]]
⚫
* [[North Korea and weapons of mass destruction]]
* [[War Memorial of Korea]]
* [[War Memorial of Korea]]


Latest revision as of 19:10, 15 December 2024

Part of a series on the
History of Korea
thum
Prehistoric period
Palaeolithic 700,000 BC-8000 BC
Neolithic 8000 BC–1500 BC
* Jeulmun
Bronze Age 1500 BC–300 BC
* Mumun
* Liaoning dagger
Ancient period
Gojoseon 2333 BC–108 BC
* Dangun
* Gija
* Wiman
Jin 4th–2nd century BC
Yemaek
Proto–Three Kingdoms period
Three Kingdoms period
Goguryeo 37 BC–668 AD
Baekje 18 BC–660 AD
Silla 57 BC–935 AD
Gaya confederacy 42–562
Tamna (Tributary of Baekje) 498–660
Usan 512–930
Northern and Southern period
United Silla (Unified Silla) 668–892
Balhae 698–926
Little Goguryeo 699–820
Tamna (Tributary of Silla) 662–925
Later Three Kingdoms period
Later Baekje 892–936
Taebong (Later Goguryeo) 901–918
Unified Silla (Later Silla) 892–935
Later Sabeol 919–927
Dongdan Kingdom 926–936
Later Balhae 927–935
Jeongan 938–986
Dynastic period
Goryeo 918–1392
Tamna (Vassal of Goryeo) 938–1105
Heungyo 1029–1030
Joseon 1392–1897
Korean Empire 1897–1910
Colonial period
Japanese occupation 1910–1945
Provisional Government 1919–1948
Modern period
Military governments 1945–1948
North-South division 1945–present
* North 1948–present
* South 1948–present
By topic
Timeline
map Korea portal

Korea's military history spans thousands of years, beginning with the ancient nation of Gojoseon and continuing into the present day with the countries of North Korea and South Korea, and is notable for its many successful triumphs over invaders.

Throughout its history, Korea has boasted numerous exceptional leaders who gained outstanding victories against numerically superior enemies. Famed leaders credited with defending Korea against foreign invasions include: Eulji Mundeok of Goguryeo, who defeated Sui China during the Goguryeo–Sui War;[1] Yeon Gaesomun of Goguryeo, who defeated Emperor Taizong of Tang China during the Goguryeo–Tang War;[2][3] Kang Kam-ch'an of Goryeo, who defeated the Khitan Empire during the Goryeo-Khitan War;[4] Ch'oe Yŏng and Yi Sŏng-gye of Goryeo, who defeated the Red Turbans during the Red Turban Invasions;[5][6] and Yi Sun-shin of Joseon, who defeated the Japanese at sea during the Imjin War.[7]

Other notable leaders include: Gwanggaeto the Great of Goguryeo, who created a great empire in Northeast Asia through conquest,[8] and subjugated the other Korean kingdoms of Baekje, Silla and Gaya to bring about a brief unification of the Three Kingdoms of Korea;[9] Geunchogo of Baekje, who captured Pyongyang and established overseas territories to control much of the Korean peninsula and dominate the seas;[10][11] Munmu and Kim Yu-sin of Silla, who united the Three Kingdoms of Korea and defeated Tang China to gain complete control of the Korean peninsula;[12] Dae Jo-yeong, who created Balhae from Goguryeo's ashes and reconquered Goguryeo lands lost during the Goguryeo-Tang War;[13] Jang Bogo of Later Silla, who created a maritime empire and commanded a powerful fleet;[14] Wang Kŏn, who united the Later Three Kingdoms of Korea and established Goryeo as the successor to Goguryeo;[15] and Yun Kwan of Goryeo, who defeated the Jurchens and constructed nine fortresses in Manchuria.[16]

During the Cold War, South Korean troops actively participated in the Vietnam War, contributing the second largest foreign military contingent after the United States.[17] North Korea also contributed soldiers, military equipment and advisors to several conflicts during the Cold War in support of the Communist bloc, including the Yom Kippur War, Ethiopian Civil War, and Ugandan Bush War.[18][19][20]

Today, both North Korea and South Korea field some of the largest and most lethal armies in the world. On one hand, North Korea is widely suspected of having nuclear weapons, as well as other weapons of mass destruction. South Korea, for its part, is equipped with a sophisticated conventional military with state-of-the-art weapons. South Korea currently serves in several UN peacekeeping missions around the world. The South Korean military enjoys military alliances with other countries, particularly the United States.

Timeline

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Gojoseon

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Buyeo

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Proto–Three Kingdoms of Korea

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Goguryeo

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Baekje

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Silla

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Gaya

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Three Kingdoms period

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Goguryeo campaigns

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Goguryeo, Baekje–Silla Alliance War

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Other conflicts

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  • The Baekje Conquest of Tamna – 498
  • The Silla Conquest of Usan – 512

Goguryeo–Sui War (598–614)

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Goguryeo–Tang War (645–668)

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Including Goguryeo and Baekje alliance against Tang and Silla

Baekje–Tang War (660–663)

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Silla–Tang War (668–676)

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  • Other rebellions from Baekje and Goguryeo people
  • Battle of Maeso fortress

North South States period

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Balhae

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  • Battle of Tianmenling – War of Foundation – 698
  • Balhae expedition to Dengzhou – 732
  • Balhae-Silla Conflicts
  • Conquest of Balhae by Khitan – 926

Silla (676–935)

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Goryeo dynasty

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Goryeo wars

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Internal strife

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Joseon dynasty

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Conflicts

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Nationwide Internal strifes

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Korean Empire

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Conflicts

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1910–1945: Colonial period

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After 1945

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See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Kim, Jinwung (2012). A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press. p. 49. ISBN 978-0253000781. Retrieved 24 June 2016.
  2. ^ Kim, Jinwung (2012). A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press. p. 50. ISBN 978-0253000781. Retrieved 24 June 2016.
  3. ^ Miller, Owen (2014). Korean History in Maps. Cambridge University Press. p. 29. ISBN 978-1107098466. Retrieved 25 June 2016. "After the Tang dynasty succeeded the Sui, the second Tang emperor also tried to bring Goguryeo under its control, launching an unsuccessful attack in 645. Goguryeo repelled a second invasion in 662 with victories by the general Yeon Gaesomun."
  4. ^ Kim, Djun Kil (May 30, 2014). The History of Korea, 2nd Edition. ABC-CLIO. p. 66. ISBN 978-1610695824. "Later, in 1018, however, a third large-scale invasion from the Khitan was thwarted by Goryeo forces led by the general Gang Gamchan (948-1031). The Khitan thereafter gave up trying to subjugate Goryeo by force."
  5. ^ "Choe Yeong, the Victorious General of Goryeo Dynasty". KBS World Radio. Retrieved 25 June 2016.
  6. ^ Lee, Ki-Baik (1984). A New History of Korea. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Harvard University Press. p. 165. ISBN 978-0674615762. "Yi Sŏng-gye himself won advancement through his success in the numerous battles of his day. He played a major role in repulsing the attacks of the Red Turban bandits and Japanese marauders, as well as in the campaign against the Yüan Tung-ning Commandery in Manchuria."
  7. ^ Gilbert, Marc Jason (Spring 2007). "Admiral Yi Sun–Shin, the Turtle Ships, and Modern Asian History" (PDF). Education About Asia. 12 (1): 34. Retrieved 25 June 2016.
  8. ^ Kim, Jinwung (2012). A History of Korea: From "Land of the Morning Calm" to States in Conflict. Bloomington, Indiana: Indiana University Press. p. 35. ISBN 978-0253000781. Retrieved 24 June 2016.
  9. ^ Lee, Hyun-hee; Park, Sung-soo; Yoon, Nae-hyun (2005). New History of Korea. Jimoondang. pp. 199–202. ISBN 9788988095850.
  10. ^ Shin, Hyoung Sik (March 31, 2005). A Brief History of Korea. Seoul, Korea: Ewha Womans University Press. pp. 29–30. ISBN 978-8973006199.
  11. ^ Lee, Ki-Baik (1984). A New History of Korea. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Harvard University Press. p. 37. ISBN 978-0674615762. "Then, in 371, Paekche struck northward into the Koguryŏ domain as far as Pyŏngyang, killing the Koguryŏ king, Kogugwŏn, in the course of the campaign. Paekche thus came to hold sway over a sizeable portion of the Korean Peninsula, including all the modern provinces of Kyŏnggi, Ch'ungch'ŏng, and Chŏlla, as well as parts of Hwanghae and Kangwŏn. Furthermore, King Kŭn Ch'ogo solidified his international position by making overtures to the Eastern Chin state in the Yangtze river region and to the Wa people in Japan."
  12. ^ Graff, David A. (2002). Medieval Chinese Warfare, 300–900. London: Routledge. p. 201. ISBN 9780415239554. "In 674 and 675 Tang forces under Liu Rengui attacked Silla itself. Chinese histories record that Liu was victorious and forced the king of Silla to sue for peace, while Korean historians report the defeat of the Chinese armies. The fact that the Tang government found it necessary to withdraw the headquarters of its Korean protectorate to the Liao River valley in the early months of 676 suggests that the Korean version is probably closer to the truth. Silla was left in uncontested control of almost the whole of the Korean peninsula, and there was no great Tang campaign to recover what had been won with such difficulty and so quickly lost."
  13. ^ "Daejoyeong, the Father of Balhae". KBS World Radio. Retrieved 25 June 2016.
  14. ^ Choi, Wan Gee (2006). The Traditional Ships of Korea. Ewha Womans University Press. pp. 66–67. ISBN 978-8973006830. Retrieved 25 June 2016. "Using his official position and his immense military influence, Jang Bo-go amassed substantial wealth by controlling maritime trade between Silla, Tang and Japan. The famous American scholar of Asian history, Edwin O. Reischauer hailed Jang Bo-go as the trade prince of the maritime commerce empire. As Jang emerged as a formidable force in the sea, high-ranking officials in the Silla capital, Gyeongju, could no longer ignore him. Jang Bo-go ruled his domain with absolute political, military and economic autonomy."
  15. ^ Nahm, Andrew C. (2005). A Panorama of 5000 Years: Korean History (Second revised ed.). Seoul: Hollym International Corporation. p. 38. ISBN 978-0930878689. "General Wang Kŏn founded a new dynasty in 918. He named it Koryŏ, symbolizing that it was the successor to Koguryŏ."
  16. ^ Eglan, Jared (2015). Beasts of War: The Militarization of Animals. Lulu.com. p. 40. ISBN 978-1329516137. Retrieved 25 June 2016.
  17. ^ Baek, Glenn (April 10, 2013). "A Perspective on Korea's Participation in the Vietnam War". The Asan Institute for Policy Studies (53). Retrieved 26 June 2016.
  18. ^ Bone, R. Maxwell (30 October 2019). "Uganda: North Korea's African Ally". thediplomat.com. Diplomat Media. Retrieved 20 May 2024.
  19. ^ Noland, Marcus (12 September 2014). "North Korean Adventures in the Horn of Africa". www.piie.com. PIIE. Retrieved 20 May 2024.
  20. ^ Solomon, Jay (9 September 2019). "The North Korean-Israeli Shadow War". www.washingtoninstitute.org. The Washington Institute for Near East Policy. Retrieved 20 May 2024.
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