The First Korean war (not to be confused with Korean War of Cold War period) was instigated by the July 4, 2007, sinking of the USS Clarence E. Walsh on patrol in the South China Sea. President David Bowers is convinced to send in the elite Ghost Special Forces, who spearhead the assault against General Paik's forces. North Korea is able to force him to stand down, but months later he activates his nuclear arsenal, and dies during the assault on his base. The Ghosts blow up his Taipodong missile, ending the war.