Why did Colombia, among all countries, volunteer troops to fight in Korea?

Colombia was one of the 22 countries that participated in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, which was fought between North Korea and South Korea. Colombia sent the Battalion Colombia to support the United Nations Command, marking the first time the country participated in a military operation outside of the Americas.

The decision to send troops was made by President Laureano Gómez, who saw Colombia's participation as an opportunity to bolster the country's international prestige and show support for the United States, which had been a close ally. Additionally, Colombia was seeking to secure financial aid from the U.S. to support its economic development.

Colombia's involvement in the Korean War was met with mixed reactions at home. Some praised it as a symbol of Colombian pride and nationalism, while others criticized it as a subservient move to the U.S. Nevertheless, the Battalion Colombia fought in several major battles, including the Battle of Old Baldy, earning recognition for their bravery and military tactics.