forced south by superior KPA numbers and equipment. The regiments of the 24th Division were systematically pushed south in engagements around Chochiwon, Chonan and Pyongtaek. The 24th Division made a final stand in the Battle of Taejon, where it was almost completely destroyed but delayed KPA forces until July 20. By that time the 8th Army's force of combat troops were roughly equal to KPA forces attacking the region, with new UN units arriving every day. While the 24th Infantry Division was fighting on the Korean western front, the KPA 5th and 12th Infantry Divisions advanced steadily on the eastern front. The KPA, 89,000 men strong, had advanced into South Korea in six columns, catching the ROK by surprise, resulting in a complete rout. The smaller ROK suffered from widespread lack of organization and equipment, and it was unprepared for war. Numerically superior, KPA forces destroyed isolated resistance from the 38,000 ROK soldiers on the front before it began moving steadily south. North Korean advance With Taejon captured, KPA forces began surrounding the Pusan Perimeter from all sides in an attempt to envelop it. The KPA 4th and 6th Infantry Divisions advanced south in a wide flanking maneuver. The two divisions attempted to envelop the UN's left flank, but became extremely spread out in the process. At the same time the KPA 5th and 12th Divisions pressured the ROK on the right flank. They advanced on UN positions with armor and superior numbers, repeatedly defeating UN forces and forcing them further south. On 21 July the KPA 12th Division was ordered by KPA II Corps to capture P'ohang-dong by 26 July. Though they were steadily pushed back, ROK forces on the right flank increased their resistance further south, hoping to delay KPA units as much as possible. KPA and ROK units sparred for control of several cities, inflicting heavy casualties on one another. The ROK forces defended Yongdok fiercely before being pushed back. They also performed well in the Battle of Andong, forcing the KPA 12th Division to delay its attacks on P'ohang-dong until early August. The ROK had also undergone significant reorganization, and after receiving a large number of recruits by 26 July, the ROK had reached an effective strength of 85,871 men. Eastern corridor Along the ROK front of the perimeter, on the eastern corridor, the terrain made moving through the area incredibly difficult. A major road ran