1950 engagement between United States and North Korean forces early in the Korean War.
The Battle of Yongdong delayed North Korean forces long enough to allow the United Nations to establish the Pusan Perimeter.
Key Facts
- Dates
- July 22–25, 1950
- US Unit
- 1st Cavalry Division
- North Korean Unit
- KPA 3rd Division
- Outcome
- US forces withdrew; Yongdong taken by KPA
- Strategic Effect
- Delayed KPA advance, enabling Pusan Perimeter setup
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Following the fall of Taejon and the retreat of the US 24th Infantry Division, the US Army 1st Cavalry Division was ordered to Yongdong to cover the withdrawal and slow the advancing North Korean Korean People's Army in southern South Korea during the early weeks of the Korean War.
Between July 22 and 25, 1950, the inexperienced US 1st Cavalry Division clashed with the KPA 3rd Division near Yongdong. The KPA outmaneuvered the American troops and forced them back, capturing the town. US artillery nonetheless inflicted substantial casualties on the North Korean forces during the engagement.
Although the Americans lost Yongdong, the battle delayed the North Korean advance for several crucial days. This delay provided United Nations Command sufficient time to organize and establish the Pusan Perimeter, a defensive line that would prove critical to the UN's survival in Korea.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent