Key Facts
- Duration
- 25–26 October 1950 (approx. 36 hours)
- Bridge length
- 300 metres (330 yd) concrete bridge
- KPA armour involved
- At least 2 T-34 tanks
- KPA convoy ambushed
- ~60 infantry plus vehicles including 1 tank
- Australian unit
- 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3 RAR)
Strategic Narrative Overview
On 25 October, Australians sent two companies across the damaged bridge using debris, establishing a bridgehead on the western bank. KPA forces engaged them with mortar and small arms fire through the night, forcing evacuations by boat under fire. At 04:00 on 26 October, KPA counterattacked with T-34 tank support; the Australians ambushed a vehicle convoy at close range and repelled repeated assaults while reinforcements crossed to hold the bridgehead.
01 / The Origins
Following North Korea's June 1950 invasion of South Korea, United Nations forces intervened and eventually pushed northward toward the Yalu River. As part of the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade's advance, Australian troops of 3 RAR moved on Kujin in late October 1950 to cross the Taeryong River, only to find the central span of the bridge demolished by KPA engineers, requiring a contested river crossing.
03 / The Outcome
By midday on 26 October, the KPA withdrew and abandoned the bridge, leaving the Australians in control of the Taeryong River crossing. C and D Companies crossed to the western bank, consolidating the position. The outcome allowed the 27th British Commonwealth Brigade to continue its advance, though subsequent Chinese intervention soon reversed UN gains across the broader Korean front.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Side B
1 belligerent
Kinetic Engagement Axis
Scroll horizontally to view full axis. Events plotted relatively.