The roots of the Korean War can be traced back to the Japanese occupation of Korea between 1910-1945. Following the culmination of the Second World War and Japan’s subsequent defeat, the Allied forces established a four-power trusteeship over Korea, as agreed at the Yalta Conference in 1945. But eventually, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) took control of North Korea while South Korea remained under the other allies, primarily the USA. This split was along the 38th parallel north, which is still recognized as the official boundary between the two Koreas.
In the aftermath, the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) were founded in 1948. As both nations aimed to expand their territorial and ideological influence, a conflict ensued between them.
The Timeline of the Korean War
The war officially kicked off in 1950 when North Korea, supported by the USSR, invaded South Korea, capturing most of its region. In response, the United Nations force, headed by the US, counterattacked. During 1951, the US forces led by Douglas MacArthur crossed the 38th parallel, pulling China into the fray in support of North Korea. To prevent any further escalation, peace discussions were initiated later that same year, with India playing a prominent role in the peace negotiations involving all major stakeholders – the US, USSR, and China.
The Indian proposal on Korea was endorsed at the United Nations in 1952. Subsequently, in 1953, the Korean Armistice Agreement was signed between the UN Command, the Korean People’s Army, and the Chinese People’s Volunteer Army. Although it brought about an official ceasefire, a full peace treaty was never signed, effectively leaving the war unresolved.
India’s Role in the Korean War
Throughout the Korean War, India held a significant diplomatic role. In 1950, then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru made significant diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation of the conflict and to facilitate a swift ceasefire. Though some early attempts by India to achieve a ceasefire fell flat, it was ultimately successful in negotiating the exchange of prisoners in 1952, which led to the July 1953 armistice agreement.
In addition, India contributed to the war effort by sending the 60th Parachute Field Ambulance unit, which treated over 200,000 people between 1950 and 1954. Despite consistently voicing its opposition to North Korea’s nuclear and missile tests, India has maintained a neutral stance regarding sanctions.
India’s Relations with North and South Korea
Over the years, India has established strong diplomatic relationships with both North and South Korea. The bilateral relationship with South Korea was elevated to a “special strategic partnership” in May 2015. Similarly, India has managed to maintain diplomatic ties with North Korea for over 47 years that reflects India’s commitment to the Non-Alignment Movement.
Way Forward
As the world grapples with the aftermath of the Covid pandemic and changing geopolitical landscapes, North Korea will be inclined to fortify its already fragile economy. At an appropriate juncture, dialogues involving North Korea, the United States, South Korea, Japan, and other stakeholders on the Korean Peninsula are likely to resume. In this scenario, India is well-positioned to play a substantial role in promoting peace and security on the Korean Peninsula.
Current Scenario: War between Russia and Ukraine
The recent outbreak of war between Russia and Ukraine has sparked worldwide concern. In this context, the Indian Prime Minister’s message that “This is not the era of war” has raised hopes that India, often envisioning itself as the “Vishwaguru,” could mediate between Russia and Ukraine to end the conflict.