38th Parallel
A zone between North Korea and South Korea, created at the end of WWII
Real World Example
The 38th parallel became a significant dividing line between North Korea and South Korea after World War II, marking the boundary of communist influence in the north and democratic influence in the south. During the Cold War, it symbolized the global struggle between the United States and its allies against the Soviet Union and its allies, as each side supported different governments in Korea. This division led to the Korean War in 1950, which ended in an armistice but not a peace treaty, leaving the two Koreas technically still at war. Today, the 38th parallel remains a heavily fortified border known as the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), impacting daily life with ongoing military tensions and separated families. For example, families with members in both Koreas still face emotional distress due to limited opportunities for reunions, highlighting the personal and ongoing effects of historical conflicts.
