Watch Korea: The Never-Ending War

Korea: The Never-Ending War is a documentary film from 2019 that explores the history of the Korean Peninsula, from its division after World War II to the present day. The film is directed by John Maggio, and narrated by John Cho. The documentary begins by highlighting the complex and turbulent history of Korea, which has been at the center of geopolitical struggles for centuries. It then focuses on the events leading up to the division of the peninsula into North and South Korea in 1945, following Japan's surrender at the end of World War II. The film provides detailed insight into the different perspectives that shaped the division of the country, including the roles played by the Soviet Union, the United States, and the Korean people themselves.

The film moves on to cover the Korean War, which began in 1950 and lasted for three years, and the devastation it wrought on both North and South Korea. The war was fought not just between the two Koreas, but also involved significant involvement from China and the United States. The documentary provides a comprehensive look at the war, including its causes, major battles, and the human toll it took on the Korean people.

The film also explores the aftermath of the war, including the creation of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) that separates North and South Korea. The DMZ, which is one of the most heavily fortified borders in the world, has become a symbol of the ongoing tension between the two Koreas. The documentary examines the efforts that have been made over the years to ease tensions and improve relations between North and South Korea, including diplomatic efforts, economic policies, and cultural exchanges.

One of the strengths of the film is its emphasis on the human stories behind the conflict. Through personal interviews with survivors and experts, the documentary highlights the experiences of ordinary people who lived through the war and its aftermath. These stories provide a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the ongoing impact it has on people's lives.

The documentary also provides important context for understanding the current situation on the Korean Peninsula. The film highlights the role that history and geopolitics have played in shaping current events, and the complexity of the challenges facing policymakers seeking to address the ongoing tensions between North and South Korea.

Overall, Korea: The Never-Ending War is a comprehensive and thought-provoking documentary that provides valuable insight into the history and ongoing challenges of the Korean Peninsula. Its focus on personal stories and experiences balance the larger geopolitical context, making it an accessible and compelling film for audiences interested in learning more about this fascinating and complex region.

Korea: The Never-Ending War is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8.