What was the Battle of P'ohang-dong and when did it occur?

The Battle of P'ohang-dong was a significant engagement during the Korean War that took place from August 5 to August 20, 1950. It involved United Nations Command (UN) forces, primarily South Korean troops supported by American air and naval power, clashing with North Korean People's Army (KPA) forces around the town of P'ohang-dong in South Korea. This battle was part of the larger Battle of the Pusan Perimeter.

What was the strategic importance of P'ohang-dong during the Battle of the Pusan Perimeter?

P'ohang-dong was strategically vital because it contained a crucial supply line that ran to the main UN force located in Taegu. Control of this town and its access routes was essential for maintaining the integrity and operational capability of the UN forces defending the Pusan Perimeter.

How did the Battle of P'ohang-dong serve as a turning point for North Korean forces?

The battle marked a turning point for the KPA because their extended supply lines became untenable due to the distances and demands placed upon them. Despite previous victories achieved through superior numbers and equipment, the logistical challenges at P'ohang-dong proved insurmountable for the North Korean forces.

What events led to the United Nations' involvement in the Korean War?

The United Nations became involved in the Korean War following the invasion of South Korea by North Korea on June 25, 1950. The UN subsequently resolved to support South Korea and commit ground forces to repel the invasion.

What was the condition of US forces in the Far East when they were committed to the Korean War?

Prior to the Korean War, US forces in the Far East had been steadily decreasing since the end of World War II. The closest available forces to Korea were elements of the US 24th Infantry Division, which was stationed in Japan.

What was the significance of the Battle of Osan on July 5, 1950?

The Battle of Osan, fought on July 5, 1950, was the first engagement between United States and North Korean forces. It resulted in a significant defeat for the advance elements of the US 24th Infantry Division.

How did the US 24th Infantry Division perform in the initial month of the Korean War?

In the first month after the initial engagements, the US 24th Infantry Division suffered repeated defeats. They were consistently pushed southward by the numerically superior and better-equipped North Korean People's Army (KPA).

What was the role of the Battle of Taejon in the early Korean War?

The Battle of Taejon was a final stand for the US 24th Infantry Division. Although the division was nearly destroyed in the fighting, its efforts successfully delayed the North Korean advance until July 20, 1950.

What was the approximate balance of forces between the UN and KPA by July 20, 1950?

By July 20, 1950, the combat troop strength of the Eighth Army (UN forces) was roughly equal to that of the KPA forces attacking the region. Furthermore, new UN units were arriving daily, bolstering the UN's capabilities.

How did the North Korean People's Army (KPA) initially advance into South Korea?

The KPA launched its invasion of South Korea using six columns of troops. This multi-pronged advance caught the Republic of Korea (ROK) forces by surprise, leading to a complete rout.

What were the primary weaknesses of the ROK forces at the outbreak of the Korean War?

The ROK forces were significantly hampered by a widespread lack of organization and inadequate equipment. They were also unprepared for the outbreak of war, contributing to their initial difficulties against the KPA invasion.

What was the estimated strength of the KPA invasion force in July 1950?

The KPA invasion force was estimated to be around 89,000 men strong when it advanced into South Korea in July 1950.

What was the estimated strength of the ROK forces on the front lines before the KPA invasion?

Before the KPA invasion, the ROK forces on the front lines numbered approximately 38,000 soldiers.

What was the KPA's strategic objective after capturing Taejon?

After capturing Taejon, the KPA's strategic objective was to surround the Pusan Perimeter from all sides in an attempt to encircle and destroy the UN forces defending it.

Which KPA divisions were responsible for the flanking maneuver on the UN's left flank?

The KPA 4th and 6th Infantry Divisions were tasked with executing a wide flanking maneuver aimed at enveloping the UN's left flank. This maneuver significantly stretched their forces.

Which KPA divisions applied pressure on the ROK forces on the right flank?

The KPA 5th and 12th Infantry Divisions were responsible for pressuring the Republic of Korea (ROK) forces on the right flank of the Pusan Perimeter.

What specific order was given to the KPA 12th Division regarding P'ohang-dong?

On July 21, 1950, the KPA 12th Division, under orders from KPA II Corps, was directed to capture P'ohang-dong by July 26, 1950.

How did the ROK forces on the right flank attempt to counter the KPA advance?

ROK forces on the right flank increased their resistance further south, aiming to delay the KPA units as much as possible and prevent them from achieving their objectives quickly.

What was the estimated strength of the ROK Army by late July 1950?

By July 26, 1950, following a significant reorganization and the integration of a large number of new recruits, the ROK Army had reached an effective strength of 85,871 men.

Describe the terrain and key geographical features of the eastern corridor of the Pusan Perimeter.

The eastern corridor of the Pusan Perimeter was characterized by extremely difficult, mountainous terrain due to the presence of the Taebaek Mountains. A major road connected Taegu to P'ohang-dong on the east coast, and another intersected this line south from Andong through Yongch'on. The town of An'gang-ni, west of P'ohang-dong, was situated near a valley providing access to the rail hub of Kyongju.

Why did General Walton Walker initially hesitate to heavily reinforce the eastern corridor?

General Walton Walker, commanding the Eighth United States Army, initially chose not to heavily reinforce the eastern corridor because he believed the terrain made a significant KPA attack unlikely. He preferred to rely on reinforcements from transportation routes and air cover from Yonil Airfield.

What was the strategic significance of the valley near An'gang-ni?

The valley near An'gang-ni, located west of P'ohang-dong, was significant because it provided a natural passage through the rugged terrain. This passage led towards Kyongju, which served as a critical staging area for moving supplies to Taegu.

How did the Taebaek Mountains influence the defensive strategy along the Pusan Perimeter?

The Taebaek Mountains, running down Korea's east coast, were utilized by the UN forces as a natural defensive barrier for the northern line of the Pusan Perimeter. However, this rugged terrain also presented challenges, particularly in terms of communication for the ROK forces.

What was the composition of the ROK Army units defending the eastern sector of the Pusan Perimeter?

The ROK Army defending the eastern sector was organized into two corps. I Corps controlled the 8th Infantry Division and Capital Divisions, while II Corps commanded the 1st and 6th Infantry Divisions. A reconstituted 3rd Division operated under direct ROK Army control.

What was the general morale of UN units like prior to the Battle of P'ohang-dong?

Morale among the UN units was generally low at this stage of the war, largely due to the series of defeats they had experienced against the North Korean advance.

What was the estimated number of ROK Army casualties before the Battle of P'ohang-dong?

Up to the point of the Battle of P'ohang-dong, the ROK Army had suffered an estimated 70,000 casualties.

What air and naval support was provided by the United States during the prelude to the battle?

The US 5th Air Force provided support with 45 P-51 Mustang fighters operating from Yonil Airfield. Additionally, the US Navy deployed several ships to provide naval gunfire support and assist with troop evacuations.

Which US Navy aircraft carriers were involved in supporting and evacuating troops near P'ohang-dong?

The aircraft carriers USS *Valley Forge* and USS *Philippine Sea* were involved in supporting operations and carrying out evacuations of wounded and surrounded troops near P'ohang-dong.

What heavy cruisers provided fire support for UN troops in the P'ohang-dong area?

The heavy cruisers USS *Helena* and USS *Toledo* provided crucial fire support for UN ground forces operating in and around P'ohang-dong.

What was the initial strength and equipment of the KPA forces at the start of the Korean War?

Initially, the KPA fielded a mechanized combined arms force comprising ten divisions, numbering approximately 90,000 well-trained and equipped men, including hundreds of T-34 tanks.

How had the KPA's strength and equipment been affected by UN defensive actions prior to August 1950?

UN defensive actions had significantly delayed the KPA's invasion, resulting in substantial losses for the North Koreans. They suffered approximately 58,000 casualties and the destruction of a large number of tanks, which diminished their overall strength and equipment readiness.

How did the KPA attempt to compensate for their losses in men and equipment?

To compensate for their significant losses, the North Koreans increasingly relied on less experienced replacements and conscripts. Many of these conscripts were recruited from the South Korean regions that the KPA had already conquered.

What was the estimated strength of the KPA units directly opposing the ROK forces on the eastern front in early August 1950?

In early August 1950, the KPA units opposing the ROK forces on the eastern front included the 8th Division (estimated 8,000 men), the 5th Division (estimated 6,000 men), the 12th Division (estimated 6,000 men), and the 766th Independent Infantry Regiment (estimated 1,500 men), totaling at least 21,500 soldiers.

Which KPA divisions and regiments were positioned against the ROK forces from west to east?

From west to east, the KPA units positioned against the ROK forces were the 8th Division, the 12th Division, the 5th Division, and the 766th Independent Infantry Regiment.

What were the primary objectives of the KPA offensives in early August 1950 in the P'ohang-dong area?

In early August, the KPA launched offensives targeting the three main passes through the ROK line. The KPA 8th Division attacked Yongch'on, the 12th Division targeted P'ohang-dong, and the 5th Division, along with the 766th Independent Infantry Regiment, attacked towards An'gang-ni and Kigye.

Why were the ROK forces considered the weakest point on the Pusan Perimeter?

The ROK forces were considered the weakest line on the Pusan Perimeter because they possessed less training and were poorly equipped compared to other UN units. The North Koreans recognized this vulnerability and believed they could achieve greater success against them.

How did the KPA 8th Division's initial attack on Yongch'on fare?

The KPA 8th Division's attack on Yongch'on stalled almost immediately. The division was surprised and outflanked by the ROKA 8th Division, suffering heavy casualties and losing at least six tanks to air attacks and mines, forcing it to halt its advance.

What challenges did the KPA 12th Division face during its advance towards P'ohang-dong?

The KPA 12th Division faced significant challenges, including being severely understrength and lacking sufficient ammunition for its artillery batteries. They had to send some guns back north due to the ammunition shortage.

How did the KPA 12th Division manage to advance towards P'ohang-dong?

The KPA 12th Division crossed the Naktong River near Andong and advanced through the mountainous terrain in small groups to reach the P'ohang-dong area. UN planners had underestimated their ability to infiltrate the region so effectively.

Describe the fighting for the town of Yongdok between the ROKA 3rd Division and KPA 5th Division.

The ROKA 3rd Division and the KPA 5th Division engaged in intense fighting for control of Yongdok. The town was captured and recaptured multiple times, with the KPA initially taking it on August 5 and pushing ROK forces south. A ROK counterattack on August 6 aimed to retake the area.

What was the tactical situation of the ROKA 3rd Division after the KPA infiltration south of Yongdok?

After KPA 5th Division forces infiltrated the coastal road south of Yongdok at Hunghae, the ROKA 3rd Division found itself effectively surrounded. It was trapped several miles north of P'ohang-dong.

What role did student volunteer soldiers play in the defense of P'ohang-dong?

Due to severe manpower shortages, a company of student volunteer soldiers was assigned to defend P'ohang-dong Girl's Middle School. They bravely held their ground for 11 hours against numerically superior KPA forces on August 11, with 48 out of 71 members ultimately losing their lives in the defense.

What were Task Force P'ohang and Task Force Bradley?

Task Force P'ohang was a UN unit organized on August 10, comprising ROK regiments (17th, 25th, 26th), the ROK 1st Anti-Guerrilla Battalion, a Marine Battalion, and a battery from the US 18th Field Artillery Battalion, tasked with clearing KPA forces. Task Force Bradley, led by Brig. Gen. Joseph S. Bradley, consisted of elements from the US 8th Infantry Regiment and 2nd Infantry Division, tasked with defending P'ohang-dong.

When did the UN forces launch their final counteroffensive in the P'ohang-dong area?

The UN forces initiated their final counteroffensive against the stalled KPA positions on August 15, 1950.

What key areas were secured by UN forces by August 17, 1950, as part of the counteroffensive?

By August 17, UN forces had successfully pushed KPA troops out of the Kyongju corridor and An'gang-ni. This action secured the vital supply road to Taegu, removing it from immediate danger.

What happened to the KPA 766th Independent Regiment and the 12th Division following the UN counteroffensive?

The KPA 766th Independent Regiment, significantly reduced in strength, was forced to withdraw north to avoid being surrounded. The KPA 12th Division, also heavily depleted and exhausted, evacuated P'ohang-dong. These units later merged and received replacements, with the 12th Division reforming with approximately 5,000 men.

When did the KPA forces completely withdraw from their offensive operations in the P'ohang-dong region?

By August 19, 1950, the KPA had completely withdrawn from their offensive operations and retreated into the surrounding mountains.

What were the final positions of the ROK Capital Division and 3rd Division after the KPA withdrawal?

Following the KPA withdrawal, the ROK Capital Division advanced to within two miles north of Kigye. The ROK 3rd Division successfully retook P'ohang-dong and advanced north of the town the following day, effectively stabilizing the UN line.

What factors contributed to the North Korean defeat at P'ohang-dong?

The North Korean defeat was primarily attributed to the complete breakdown of their supply lines, which were overextended and unable to sustain their forces. Additionally, persistent US air superiority and naval bombardments prevented the KPA from consolidating their gains and holding objectives.

Why was it difficult to accurately estimate the total casualties for both sides in the Battle of P'ohang-dong?

Estimating total casualties was challenging due to the poor organization of both KPA and ROK units and the fact that several units were completely destroyed during the intense fighting, making precise counting difficult.

Battle Of P Ohang-dong Wiki: The Crucible of P'ohang-dong: A Strategic Turning Point in the Korean War

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Battle Overview

Date and Location

The Battle of P'ohang-dong took place from 5 to 20 August 1950. It was fought around the strategic town of P'ohang-dong on the eastern coast of South Korea, a vital location within the Pusan Perimeter.

Outcome

The engagement concluded with a decisive victory for the United Nations Command (UN). UN forces successfully repelled an offensive by three North Korean People's Army (KPA) divisions, securing critical territory.

Context

This battle was an integral part of the larger Battle of Pusan Perimeter, representing one of several major engagements fought simultaneously to defend the last bastion of UN forces in South Korea against the advancing KPA.

Strategic Context

The Korean War Erupts

Following North Korea's invasion of South Korea on 25 June 1950, the United Nations committed forces to defend the Republic of Korea. Initial US deployments, primarily from the 24th Infantry Division stationed in Japan, faced severe setbacks against the numerically superior and better-equipped KPA.

These early engagements, including the Battle of Osan and the defense of Taejon, resulted in significant UN casualties and forced a continuous retreat southward. By late July, while the KPA had captured Taejon, UN forces were being reinforced daily, leading to a more balanced strength on the western front.

North Korean Advance on the Eastern Front

Simultaneously, on the eastern front, KPA divisions, notably the 5th and 12th Infantry Divisions, advanced steadily. These forces aimed to envelop the UN forces by pushing south through the mountainous terrain. The Republic of Korea Army (ROKA) units defending this sector were often less experienced and poorly equipped, making them a primary target for the KPA's offensive strategy.

Despite initial setbacks, ROKA forces demonstrated increasing resistance in other sectors, delaying the KPA advance. However, the KPA's objective was clear: to breach the Pusan Perimeter and secure key strategic points like P'ohang-dong.

The Eastern Corridor

The terrain along the eastern front of the Pusan Perimeter was exceptionally challenging, dominated by the Taebaek Mountains. A critical road ran east from Taegu to P'ohang-dong, with another major north-south route passing through Yongch'on. The town of An'gang-ni, west of P'ohang-dong, served as a vital valley access point to the rail hub of Kyongju, essential for UN supply lines.

General Walton Walker, commanding the Eighth US Army, initially deemed the terrain too difficult for a major KPA offensive and opted to rely on mobile reinforcements and air support rather than heavily fortifying this sector.

Prelude to Engagement

UN Forces Deployed

The ROK Army, comprising approximately 58,000 troops organized into two corps and five divisions, formed the primary defense along the eastern perimeter. Units included the 8th and Capital Divisions under I Corps, and the 1st and 6th Divisions under II Corps, with a reconstituted 3rd Division under direct army control. Morale was reportedly low due to previous defeats.

Crucially, UN air and naval assets provided significant support. The US Fifth Air Force deployed P-51 Mustang fighters from Yonil Airfield, while US Navy cruisers and aircraft carriers offered naval gunfire and evacuation support.

KPA Strength and Objectives

The KPA deployed ten divisions, initially numbering around 90,000 men, including armored units. However, by August, significant losses had reduced their strength, with divisions operating below full capacity. The KPA 5th, 12th, and 8th Divisions, along with the 766th Independent Infantry Regiment, were tasked with advancing through the eastern corridor.

Their objective was to exploit the perceived weakness in the ROKA lines, capture P'ohang-dong, and disrupt the vital UN supply routes leading to Taegu, thereby collapsing the Pusan Perimeter.

The Battle Unfolds

Initial KPA Offensive

In early August, KPA divisions launched coordinated attacks targeting the passes through the ROK lines. The KPA 8th Division's assault on Yongch'on faltered early due to effective ROKA counter-maneuvers and air attacks, suffering significant losses and tanks destroyed. However, the KPA 12th and 5th Divisions achieved greater initial success against the ROK forces.

The KPA 12th Division infiltrated through the mountainous terrain towards P'ohang-dong, while the 5th Division engaged ROK forces along the coastal road, leading to intense back-and-forth fighting for control of towns like Yongdok. The KPA 766th Independent Regiment advanced to secure the area around P'ohang-dong itself.

UN Counter-Measures and Naval Support

Recognizing the threat, Eighth Army organized Task Force P'ohang and Task Force Bradley. Task Force P'ohang aimed to clear KPA forces from the mountainous region, while Task Force Bradley was tasked with defending P'ohang-dong against infiltration by the KPA 766th Regiment.

Intense fighting ensued as UN forces, supported by US naval bombardment and air strikes, attempted to regain control. P'ohang-dong became a contested no-man's land. The ROK 3rd Division, heavily engaged and outflanked, faced evacuation by sea, moving south to Yonil Bay to regroup and participate in a coordinated counterattack.

KPA Collapse and Retreat

By mid-August, the KPA offensive began to falter significantly. Their supply lines, stretched thin across difficult terrain, broke down, leading to severe shortages of food, ammunition, and reinforcements. KPA units reported being exhausted and unable to sustain combat operations.

Facing mounting casualties and logistical collapse, the KPA 5th and 12th Divisions, along with the 766th Regiment, were forced into a general retreat. UN forces launched a final counteroffensive, pushing the KPA back into the mountains by August 19. While the ROK line was pushed back several miles, the KPA offensive was decisively halted, securing the critical supply routes to Taegu.

Analysis and Consequences

Key Factors in UN Victory

Several critical factors contributed to the UN victory at P'ohang-dong:

Logistical Breakdown: The KPA's inability to sustain their advance due to overextended supply lines was a primary determinant.
Air and Naval Superiority: Consistent air strikes and naval bombardment by UN forces severely hampered KPA movements and held key objectives.
Terrain and ROKA Resilience: While initially challenged, the difficult terrain ultimately favored defensive actions, and the ROKA, despite heavy losses, managed to hold critical positions and execute a strategic withdrawal and counter-attack.
KPA Exhaustion: Continuous combat and heavy casualties left KPA units severely depleted and unable to maintain offensive pressure.

Casualties and Strategic Impact

Estimates suggest approximately 3,800 KPA soldiers were killed and 181 captured in the P'ohang area from August 17 onwards, though total KPA casualties were likely much higher, with units like the 12th Division suffering thousands of losses. Precise figures for both sides are difficult to ascertain due to the chaotic nature of the fighting and unit destruction.

The battle represented a turning point for the KPA, marking the limits of their initial offensive capabilities. It solidified the Pusan Perimeter defenses and prevented the collapse of UN forces in South Korea, setting the stage for the subsequent Inchon landing and counter-offensive.

Cultural Depiction

"71: Into the Fire"

A poignant aspect of the Battle of P'ohang-dong involves the heroic stand of a company of student volunteer soldiers defending P'ohang-dong Girl's Middle School. Outnumbered and outgunned, these young fighters held their ground for 11 hours against KPA forces.

This sacrifice was later dramatized in the 2010 South Korean film 71: Into the Fire, directed by John H. Lee, which brought wider attention to the bravery and cost of this particular engagement within the larger battle.

Scholarly Sources

Primary References

The historical account of the Battle of P'ohang-dong is primarily drawn from comprehensive military histories:

Alexander, Bevin (2003), Korea: The First War We Lost
Appleman, Roy E. (1998), South to the Naktong, North to the Yalu: United States Army in the Korean War
Catchpole, Brian (2001), The Korean War
Ecker, Richard E. (2004), Battles of the Korean War: A Chronology, with Unit-by-Unit United States Casualty Figures & Medal of Honor Citations
Fehrenbach, T.R. (2001), This Kind of War: The Classic Korean War History – Fiftieth Anniversary Edition
Gugeler, Russell A. (2005), Combat Actions in Korea
Stewart, Richard W. (2005), American Military History Volume II: The United States Army in a Global Era, 1917–2003
Varhola, Michael J. (2000), Fire and Ice: The Korean War, 1950–1953
강은나래 (2011-10-04), "〈'포항 속으로' 학도병들..61년 만의 군번 수여〉", Yonhap News (in Korean)

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Battle Of P Ohang-dong" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about battle_of_p_ohang-dong while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

tories british political party

david pate

same-sex marriage in akrotiri and dhekelia

justin omoregie

archaeological science

may 68

orange belgium

stephan fransen

oslo national academy of the arts

innocence project

References

ê°ìëë 2011

A full list of references for this article are available at the Battle of P'ohang-dong Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon historical data and academic sources for informational and educational purposes. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is intended as a synthesized overview and not a definitive historical account.

This is not military strategy advice. The information provided is for educational context only and should not be interpreted as tactical or strategic guidance. Military history is complex, and interpretations can vary. Always consult primary sources and expert analyses for a comprehensive understanding.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Crucible of P'ohang-dong

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Battle Overview ℹ️

📅 Date and Location

🏆 Outcome

⚔️ Context

Strategic Context 📜

🌍 The Korean War Erupts

➡️ North Korean Advance on the Eastern Front

⛰️ The Eastern Corridor

Prelude to Engagement ⚠️

🛡️ UN Forces Deployed

🇨🇳 KPA Strength and Objectives

The Battle Unfolds 💥

⚡ Initial KPA Offensive

🔄 UN Counter-Measures and Naval Support

📉 KPA Collapse and Retreat

Analysis and Consequences 📊

💡 Key Factors in UN Victory

📈 Casualties and Strategic Impact

Cultural Depiction 🎬

🎥 "71: Into the Fire"

Scholarly Sources 📚

📖 Primary References

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Battle Overview

Date and Location

Outcome

Context

Strategic Context

The Korean War Erupts

North Korean Advance on the Eastern Front

The Eastern Corridor

Prelude to Engagement

UN Forces Deployed

KPA Strength and Objectives

The Battle Unfolds

Initial KPA Offensive

UN Counter-Measures and Naval Support

KPA Collapse and Retreat

Analysis and Consequences

Key Factors in UN Victory

Casualties and Strategic Impact

Cultural Depiction

"71: Into the Fire"

Scholarly Sources

Primary References

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice