I chose the S3 Question:

Korea was vulnerable and appealing for military occupation for a number of reasons. First, in regards to its geography Korea presents an avenue into Southeast Asia, and if necessary access to the ever important state of China. Additionally, it possesses several ports that would be beneficial for many nations during the mid-2oth century due to their ability to increase trade and allow for exports/imports. Japan, most notably, was interested in the Chosan due to its avenue to the nation of China which it of course has a long history with. The Korea peninsula also satisfies American national interest due to its border with China and its geography continues to be the primary reason why the U.S. has such strong ties to the ROK. Korea was both vulnerable and appealing for occupation due to the fact that especially in the early 20th century its military was no match for the Japanese military power. Additionally in regards to its geography, Korea is heavily invested in agricultural goods such as rice and other grains that instantly provides a source of food for a conquering force.

Multiple geopolitical factors influenced the military invasion in June 1950 by Pyongyang. Obviously, as told in “This Kind of War” the Soviet Union was involved and was aware of the invasion before it occurred. It was in the interest of the USSR to continue to expand communism and to continue to exert control over as many areas as it could. The Soviets were likely interested in the warm water ports in the South of Korea to include Pusan. The Soviets knew that if they could control the Korean peninsula they could also control these ports which would effectively allow them to increase their economic desires.

Next, political influences were heavy in the decision to maneuver DPRK forces south of the 38th parallel in June 1950. As told in the book, the North understood that South Korea was a newly minted country, one that was also just recently introduced into the UN. They knew that the longer they would wait for their inevitable invasion of the South, the more difficult it would be. They were correct in assuming that the United States would soon pour in a great deal of economic and military aid into the country which would only advance the strength of the ROK armed forces.