Today in Korean history

June 22

1946 -- The Independence Army of Korea returns from China following the restoration of Korea's sovereignty from Japanese colonial rule, which ended in August 1945. The voluntary force fought against Japanese troops in Manchuria and Shanghai under the command of the Korean Provisional Government.

1948 -- South Korea sends its athletes to participate in the Olympic Games, held that year in London, marking the first time for the country to compete in the quadrennial event.

1965 -- South Korea and Japan sign a treaty in Tokyo to normalize diplomatic relations, 20 years after Korea regained sovereignty from the colonial regime. As part of the agreement, Japan paid South Korea US$800 million in grants and loans in economic cooperation funds, not in the form of compensation.

2002 -- World Cup co-hosts South Korea defeats Spain in a penalty shootout, becoming the first Asian team to advance to the semifinals of the tournament.

2006 -- South Korea's Supreme Court allows legal gender change for transsexuals.
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