Operation Moolah was initiated by the South Korean government during the height of the Korean War as a strategic operation targeted at enemy pilots. The core objective was to lure North Korean pilots to defect, particularly those operating the Soviet-designed MiG-15 fighter jet, which had proven dominating in aerial combat. South Korea's offer of monetary incentives was fueled by the pressing need for intelligence regarding the MiG-15’s capabilities and technology, which would provide a significant advantage in air conflict. At the onset, a sum of $50,000 was promised to any pilot who could successfully defect, with the added bonus of $100,000 offered specifically to the first pilot to achieve this feat, showcasing the urgency of collection of foreign air power resources and technological insights.The propaganda impact of Operation Moolah was significant, as it leveraged financial incentives not only to entice North Korean pilots but also to demoralize enemy forces. The initiative received acknowledgment from both the South Korean government and the United States military, underscoring its importance in the broader context of the war. Furthermore, the potential of capturing a working MiG-15 offered a unique advantage in tactical and technological assessments. As many North Korean pilots faced increasingly challenging circumstances, the chance for financial gain and safety proved enticing, leading to multiple defection attempts over time, although not all were fruitful. This operation highlighted the complexities of warfare where psychological and economic strategies were employed alongside traditional military tactics.