(Illustration by Hyemin Lee/Stripes Korea)

On July 5, 1950, just days after the Korean War began, the U.S. sent the first ground troops: Task Force Smith from the 24th Infantry Division. About 540 U.S. soldiers, lacking sufficient artillery and anti-tank weapons, faced over 5,000 North Korean troops armed with Soviet-made T-34/85 tanks near Osan. The battle was lost, but they fought bravely, delaying the advance. Their sacrifice helped earn precious time for more U.S. troops to arrive and form a strong defense line to save South Korea. They are still remembered with deep respect, and their bravery is honored at Jukmiryeong Peace Park in Osan.

Yonggi (Courage) (Illustration by Hyemin Lee/Stripes Korea)