The United States played a pivotal role in the Korean War, intervening on behalf of South Korea after North Korea invaded in June 1950. Under the auspices of the United Nations, U.S. forces, led by General Douglas MacArthur, aimed to repel North Korean advances and restore peace. The conflict was part of the broader Cold War dynamics, exemplifying the U.S. commitment to contain communism. The war resulted in an armistice in 1953, establishing the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), but it did not lead to a formal peace treaty. The U.S. military presence in South Korea continues to this day, highlighting ongoing tensions.