The 20th century for Korea began under growing Japanese influence, culminating in Japan's formal annexation of the peninsula in 1910.

Korea endured 35 years of often brutal Japanese colonial rule, which ended with Japan's defeat in World War II in 1945.

After the war, Korea was divided at the 38th parallel into two zones of occupation: a Soviet-backed zone in the north and a U.S.-backed zone in the south.

This temporary division became permanent in 1948 with the establishment of two separate states: North Korea (DPRK) and South Korea (ROK).

The Korean War (1950-1953) began when North Korea invaded the South, and the conflict ended in a stalemate that solidified the division.

North Korea developed into a totalitarian, isolated communist state under the dictatorial rule of the Kim dynasty.

South Korea, after periods of authoritarian rule and military dictatorships, transitioned into a vibrant and prosperous democracy.

South Korea also experienced remarkable economic growth, known as the 'Miracle on the Han River,' becoming a major industrial and technological power.

The two Koreas remain technically at war, separated by the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

The division of the Korean peninsula is one of the most enduring legacies of the Cold War.