25 June 1950
On the 25 June 1950, North Korean forces crossed the 38th Parallel, invading South Korea and capturing the capital, Seoul, within the week. The UN Security Council requested assistance from its members to defend the south’s sovereignty.
The UN’s complete control of the sea was critical in preventing the immediate fall of South Korea. Australia was the second country, after the United States, to commit support.
In August 1950, HMAS Bataan fired the RAN’s first shot of the Korean War when it engaged an enemy shore battery near Haeju, north-west of Inchon. In September, Bataan and Warramunga formed part of the covering force that supported amphibious landings at Inchon. They engaged enemy coastal installations and gun batteries.
Mine warfare was employed extensively by North Korean forces. Clearing them became was particularly hazardous on the peninsula’s west coast.
From July 1951, a show of naval strength in the Han River estuary sought to pressure the North Korean delegation into a ceasefire. HMAS Murchison distinguished itself in complex operations in treacherous shallow waters while often under enemy fire.
Australia was one of just three nations to contribute a naval aviation force. HMAS Sydney’s deployment in October 1951, along with Fleet Air Arm (FAA) squadrons 805, 808 and 817, was a high priority. Sydney conducted seven patrols, typically of nine flying days and one replenishment day, off both coasts. Its main responsibilities included:
- armed reconnaissance
- army cooperation
- naval gunfire spotting
- combat air patrols.
Flight deck and maintenance crews worked long hours in all weather conditions to ensure a high level of aircraft availability.
The Korean War ended with the signing of an armistice agreement on 27 July 1953. Overall, more than 4,500 men aboard nine Australian warships served in the operational area. Three members of the RAN – all pilots from 805 Squadron – were killed during the conflict and six were wounded. Sixty two members received commendations.