HMS Belfast and the Korean War

An American helicopter flies over HMS Belfast in the Yellow Sea, 1951
An American helicopter flies over HMS Belfast in the Yellow Sea, 1951

The Korean War began on 25 June 1950. Communist North Korean troops invaded South Korea and rapidly advanced southwards. The UN was quick to respond, encouraging its members to support South Korea. Many countries sent troops.
HMS Belfast in action during the Korean War, November 1951
HMS Belfast in action during the Korean War, November 1951

HMS Belfast played an active role in the Korean War from 1950-1952 working with other Allied forces to support the retreating American and South Korean troops.
HMS Belfast during the Korean War
HMS Belfast during the Korean War

The Royal Marine Band from HMS Belfast entertains troops ashore in Korea, September 1952.
HMS Belfast in action during the Korean War
HMS Belfast in action during the Korean War

In this photograph HMS Belfast approaches HMS Ocean prior to the transfer of Rear Admiral Scott-Moncrieff, Flag Officer, Second in Command, Far East Station from his flagship HMS Belfast to HMS Ocean to observe air operations against targets in NW Korea.
HMS Belfast during the Korean War
HMS Belfast during the Korean War

This photograph shows the transfer of South Korean Marines from HMS Belfast to a landing craft for the occupation of Sin Do, September 1951.
HMS Belfast during the Korean War
HMS Belfast during the Korean War

A South Korean naval craft coming alongside HMS Belfast during blockade patrols off Inchon.

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Life on Board

Session Outline

Students investigate aspects of life on board through the personal stories of men who served on HMS Belfast. Handling artefacts from the ship’s collection students discover how different crew members lived and worked on a warship.

Skills

Gathering evidence from artefacts and the historical environment of HMS Belfast
Working effectively in teams to investigate key themes related to life on board
Presenting findings to the rest of the group

Activities

Handling artefacts, asking questions about them and sharing ideas with the group
Investigating the lives of crew members who served on HMS Belfast at different times in the ship’s history

Session Details

Suitable for: Key Stage 2 (Year 4) - Key Stage 4

SEN Students working at KS2 or above

Branch: HMS Belfast

Available: Monday to Friday (Term times only)

Duration: 60 minutes

Cost: £65 per group of 30

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From the World Wars to the Cold War, IWM gives teachers and students in UK schools everything they need to explore the course, causes and consequences of conflict from the First World War to today.

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