Key Facts
- Dates
- July 9–12, 1950
- Duration
- 4 days
- U.S. unit engaged
- 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division
- Result
- North Korean victory; U.S. delay achieved
- Strategic effect
- Allowed U.S. blocking positions on Kum River near Daejeon
Strategic Narrative Overview
The understrength regiment deployed along roads and railroads between Jeonui-myeon and Jochiwon, fighting a series of engagements from July 9 to 12. U.S. air strikes inflicted considerable damage on North Korean armor and vehicles. However, the two U.S. battalions were overwhelmed by North Korean infantry, suffering heavy losses in both personnel and equipment across four days of intense combat.
01 / The Origins
Following the outbreak of the Korean War in June 1950, North Korean People's Army forces pushed rapidly southward through South Korea. After communist victories at Osan, Pyongtaek, and Chonan in early July, U.S. forces were in retreat. The 21st Infantry Regiment of the 24th Infantry Division was tasked with delaying two advancing North Korean divisions moving through western South Korea toward Jochiwon.
03 / The Outcome
The battle ended in a North Korean victory after four days of fighting. Despite massive losses, the 21st Infantry Regiment succeeded in delaying the North Korean advance by several days. This delay allowed the rest of the 24th Infantry Division to establish blocking positions along the Kum River near Daejeon, buying additional time for U.S. and South Korean forces to regroup and reinforce.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent
Kinetic Engagement Axis
Scroll horizontally to view full axis. Events plotted relatively.