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Syngman Rhee: The Rise and Fall of South Korea's First President | The Kids History Podcast Inspired by Billy Joel
Description
In this episode of History Ignited, we examine the complex and controversial life of Syngman Rhee, the first president of South Korea.
A dedicated independence activist who spent decades in exile, Rhee finally saw his dream of a sovereign Korea realized—only to lead it through the devastation of the Korean War and years of authoritarian rule. We’ll discuss:
- Rhee’s early struggle against Japanese colonial rule.
- The division of the peninsula and his rise to the presidency.
- The tensions of his leadership, from the outbreak of war to the 1960 April Revolution that ended his reign.
Join us as we break down the legacy of a leader whose iron will shaped a nation but left behind a deeply divided heritage.
About History Ignited:
History Ignited is the award-winning kids and family history podcast inspired by Billy Joel’s We Didn’t Start the Fire. Each short episode explores the real stories behind the people, events, inventions, and cultural moments that shaped the world from the 1950s through the 1980s. Winner of the 2025 Webby People’s Voice Award for Best Kids & Family Podcast.