The 72nd Division (Chinese: 第72师) was created in February 1949 under the Regulation of the Redesignations of All Organizations and Units of the Army, issued by Central Military Commission on November 1, 1948,[1] basing on the 18th Division, 6th Column of the Huadong Field Army.
Under the flag of the 72nd Division, it took part in several major battles in the Chinese Civil War, including the Huaihai Campaign.
The division then entered Korea with the Corps HQ as a part of People's Volunteer Army.
During its deployment in Korea, it took part in the defensive actions in Triangle Hill and Kumsong area.
Zhang Taofang, a soldier from 214th Regiment, claimed 214 confirmed kills with 442 shots in his 32-day deployment with a rifle without the scope.