The Korean War in history of Turkish Republic, importance, evaluation about the pre and Post-War periods

After Second World War, a lot of changes occurred in Europe as well as in the World. A new bipolar world order is formed. The Soviet Union (USSR), the winner of The World War II, which never gave up its imperialist dreams, asserted that Turkish- Soviet Treaty of Amity and Nonaggression, signed on December 17, 1925, does not comply with the period?s conditions, hence it would not extend the validity of treaty as of March 19,1945. While tension arising from this situation continued, this time, on June 7, 1945, USSR delivered a note and wanted some changes on the eastern border to her advantage, the review of the Montreux Treaty, a military base in Straits and joint defense of the Straits. Turkey disapproved these demands, however; USSR delivered two more notes on August 8, 1946 and on September 25, 1946 and insisted on her claims.USSR, led by Stalin, claimed land from Turkey and tried to control the Straits. This situation created an anxiety towards USSR?s imperialism in terms of security check. The USA, foreseeing the future developments and in line with its national interest, decided to fill in the gap left by United Kingdom.On March 3, 1947, Truman Doctrine was declared and it is denoted that The Doctrine included Turkey. On July 4, 1948, American Government signed an agreement and began helping Turkey economically. After this agreement, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Agency helped Turkey between 1949 and 1951 within the frame of Marshall Plan.On the morning of June 25, 1950, North Korea, claming that South Korean soldiers infringed the borders on the 38th parallel, launched an assault on the whole front, starting a war. Upon the call of the United Nations, Sixteen countries contributed to the UN forces.Whilst, Brigadier Tahsin Yazıcı was appointed as the chief commander of the Turkish Brigade which was formed by troops coming from different regions of Turkey, colonel Celal Dora was appointed of 241 Infantry Regiment.Turkish Brigade has played a determining role in South Korea?s independence war which lasted three years (1950-1953). The courage and heroism displayed by Turkish Brigade, especially in Kunuri diversion, and in Kumyangjangni offensive have increased the sprit and determination of UN forces. Turkish Army played a distinguished role in the World history, by its participation in the Korean War within the UN forces. Korean War also demonstrated and proved Turkey?s commitment to democracy, freedom and human rights. Turkey?s accession to NATO started after this success.Nevertheless, the fundamental reason for Turkey?s membership to NATO was the need for a modern and well equipped army on the southern border of Europe against Soviet Union. The army that could meet the challenges was the Turkish Army which has proved its determination and ability in combat and battles in the Korean War.Key Words1.Marshall Plan2.United Nations3.Tahsin Yazıcı4.Turkish Brigade5.Korean War