How did the United Nations respond to North Korea's invasion of the South?

The United Nations responded to North Korea's invasion of the South by passing a resolution to support South Korea.

In June 1950, North Korea launched a surprise attack on South Korea, crossing the 38th parallel and quickly advancing southwards. This aggressive move prompted an urgent response from the United Nations (UN). The UN Security Council convened and passed Resolution 82, which condemned North Korea's actions and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and withdrawal of North Korean forces to the 38th parallel.

When North Korea ignored this resolution, the UN took further action. On 27th June 1950, the Security Council passed Resolution 83, recommending that member states provide military assistance to South Korea to repel the North Korean invasion. This was a significant step, as it marked the first time the UN had authorised the use of force to maintain international peace and security.

The United States played a leading role in the UN's military response. President Harry S. Truman quickly ordered American forces to support South Korea, and other UN member nations also contributed troops, equipment, and medical aid. General Douglas MacArthur was appointed as the commander of the UN forces, which included soldiers from countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Turkey.

The UN forces initially struggled to halt the North Korean advance, but a successful counteroffensive, including the famous Inchon Landing in September 1950, turned the tide. The conflict continued until an armistice was signed in July 1953, effectively ending the fighting but leaving the Korean Peninsula divided.

The UN's response to the Korean War demonstrated its commitment to collective security and set a precedent for future international interventions. It also highlighted the Cold War tensions, as the Soviet Union and China supported North Korea, while the United States and its allies backed South Korea.