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Korea was originally a single, unified nation until its annexation by Japan in 1910, which marked the beginning of a dark era of repression. The plight of the Korean people continued until the end of World War II in 1945 when the country was liberated but subsequently divided into North and South. The northern half came under the influence of the Soviet Union, while the south fell into American hands. The separation was solidified by the Korean War, leading to the establishment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) and the Republic of Korea (South Korea).