History
China has a very long history and is home to many people. During the 20th century, the country went through many big changes. A new government took power in 1949, which changed how China worked with other countries around the world.
When the Korean War started in 1950, China decided to send its own soldiers to help North Korea. This was because China wanted to support a country that shared its political beliefs and to keep opposing forces away from its own border.
The Korean War was a very intense time for China. Thousands of soldiers were sent to fight, and the war lasted for several years. Even after the fighting stopped, the relationship between China and other world powers remained tense for a long time.
Later in the 20th century, China began to grow its economy and change its role on the global stage. It became a very important player in world trade and politics. Today, China is known for its large population and its growing influence in many different areas of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Notable Operations
Conflicts
China Forces & Equipment
Browse the armed forces, weapons, and vehicles fielded by China.

Chinese Border Guards
The Chinese Border Guards are responsible for watching over the long borders of China. They help keep the country safe from outsiders.

Chinese People's Volunteer Army
This large military group fought in the Korean War. They were the main force supporting the North Korean army against the United Nations.

People's Liberation Army (China)
The People's Liberation Army is the official military of China. It grew during the twentieth century to become a massive national force.
Combat Medals & Awards

August 1 Medal
This is the modern People's Liberation Army's highest military award for outstanding heroism and national defense service.

Chinese People's Volunteers Resist America and Aid Korea Memorial Medal
A campaign medal awarded to Chinese troops who deployed to the Korean peninsula to fight in the Korean War.

Medal of Performing Combat Mission
A modern Chinese combat medal given to military personnel who carry out dangerous real-world combat operations.

National Defense Service Medal
A service medal awarded to Chinese troops who faithfully protect the nation over long periods of military duty.

Order of Bayi (1955)
A historical military decoration awarded to veterans who fought during the early revolutionary campaigns from 1927 to 1937.

Order of Blue Sky and White Sun
This prestigious medal rewards soldiers who perform heroic feats to save China during dangerous military emergencies.

Order of Independence and Freedom
This military decoration honored Chinese soldiers and leaders who fought bravely against Japanese forces in World War II.

Order of Liberation
A historical military award given to Chinese soldiers who fought during the nationwide civil conflicts from 1945 to 1950.

Order of National Glory
This is the highest military award given to Chinese soldiers who defend the nation against major foreign attacks.

Order of the Resplendent Banner
This military decoration honors Chinese troops for major contributions to national defense or exceptional command in combat.
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The Battle of Heartbreak Ridge was a month-long, intense fight for a high hill in Korea that remains a symbol of the war's difficulty.

What Happened at the Battle of the Imjin River?
Discover the heroic story of the Gloucestershire Regiment at the Imjin River during the Korean War.

What Happened at the Battle of Pork Chop Hill?
Pork Chop Hill was a brutal and costly battle fought for a piece of land that held little tactical value during the final months of the Korean War.














