Final answer:
The Korean War was caused by the division of Korea after World War II and the desire of North Korea to reunify the country under communist rule. China became involved to support its communist allies and prevent a pro-American government on its border. North Korea's economic performance was limited due to a centralized economic system, while South Korea experienced rapid economic growth through a free market economy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The causes of the Korean War can be traced back to the division of Korea after World War II. Following the surrender of Japan, Korea was divided along the 38th Parallel, with the Soviet Union establishing a communist government in the North and the United States establishing a democratic government in the South. The main cause of the war was the desire by North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Il Sung, to reunify the country under communist rule. The invasion of South Korea by North Korea in 1950 sparked the conflict.
When it comes to China's involvement in the Korean War, there were several factors at play. China was a communist nation led by Mao Zedong, and they saw the conflict as an opportunity to support and strengthen their communist allies in North Korea. They feared that if the United States and its allies were successful in defeating North Korea, it would create a hostile, pro-American government on China's border. China's involvement in the war provided a buffer zone between China and the American-backed South Korea.
In terms of economic performance, North Korea and South Korea took different paths. After the Korean War, North Korea adopted a centralized economic system with complete state control over resources and production. However, this system led to a stagnation of the economy and limited development. On the other hand, South Korea embraced a free market economy and implemented policies that encouraged investment and growth. As a result, South Korea experienced rapid economic expansion and became one of the world's leading industrialized countries.