North Korean Occupation of South Korea Stamps
The North Korean Occupation of South Korea refers to the brief period following World War II when the northern half of the Korean Peninsula, administered by the Soviet Union, extended its authority over the southern territory before the establishment of separate governments. This ephemeral postal entity, existing in 1945–1946, represents a unique administrative transition following the collapse of Japanese colonial rule.
- Issued stamps
- 1945–1946
- Region
- Asia, East Asia
- Currency
- KPW
- Languages
- Korean, Russian, English
- Issuer type
- Occupation postal administration
- Part of
- North Korea
History and background
Stamps issued during this time often bear Korean script, sometimes alongside Russian or English notations reflecting the Allied occupation structure. These issues are historically significant as they bridge the period between the end of the Japanese Empire and the formal division into the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Republic of Korea.
Further reading: Wikipedia
How to identify them
- Look for Korean script, often alongside Russian or English notations, indicating the Allied occupation.
- Examine for overprints or surcharges on existing Japanese colonial stamps.
- Pay attention to the dates of issue, which fall strictly within 1945-1946.
- Familiarize yourself with known provisional issues and their specific characteristics.
Popular series
-
Provisional Issues
1945-1946
Stamps issued during the immediate post-WWII period, often overprinted or surcharged Japanese colonial stamps, reflecting the transitional administration.
-
Liberation Issues
1945
Stamps commemorating the liberation from Japanese rule, sometimes featuring symbols of the new administration.
Value overview
Typical ranges as orientation, not prices for a particular stamp. Condition, variety and demand decide the value of your copy; for current asking prices, check listings or the app.
- Common stamps
- $5–$50
- Scarce stamps
- $100–$1,000+
The value of these stamps varies significantly based on condition, specific issue, and whether they are genuinely used or mint. Provisional issues and those with clear occupation markings tend to be more sought after. Forgeries and propaganda reprints exist, so authentication is crucial.
Catalogs. North Korean Occupation of South Korea stamps are listed in the major world catalogs: Scott, Michel and Stanley Gibbons. Catalog numbers and groupings differ between them; the Stamp Identifier app shows the numbers it can find for your stamp.
Questions about North Korean Occupation of South Korea stamps
North Korean Occupation of South Korea stamps refer to the philatelic issues from the brief period (1945-1946) when the Soviet-administered northern half of Korea extended its authority over the southern territory following the end of Japanese colonial rule, before the formal division of the peninsula. These stamps represent a unique transitional postal entity.
Yes, many North Korean Occupation of South Korea stamps can be quite valuable, especially rare provisional issues, errors, or those in pristine condition. Common issues might range from $5 to $50, while rare examples can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Their historical significance and limited issuance contribute to their collectibility.
To identify North Korean Occupation of South Korea stamps, look for Korean script, often accompanied by Russian or English text, and check for overprints or surcharges on Japanese colonial stamps. The period of issue is strictly 1945-1946. The Stamp Identifier app can suggest the issue from a photo; confirm the catalog number, and ask an expert about anything valuable.
North Korean Occupation of South Korea stamps are listed in major international stamp catalogs such as Scott, Michel, and Stanley Gibbons. These catalogs provide detailed information, including issue dates, descriptions, and estimated values, which are essential for serious collectors.
Not sure where
it's from?
Photograph the stamp and Stamp Identifier names the issuer, the year and the series. One identification every 24 hours is free; prices and listings need Premium.