Metal razor and 'Dragon' razor blades used by Private James Wood, 1st Battalion, The Gloucestershire Regiment, 1951 (c)

During the Korean War (1950-1953) 1st Battalion, The Gloucestershire Regiment, fought at the Battle of Imjin in April 1951. After days of fierce fighting over 500 soldiers were captured by the Chinese Communist forces and held prisoner for two and half years. Private James W. Wood was one of those captured. He used this razor in captivity.

Most soldiers shaved everyday in Korea to combat the spread of lice. British soldiers were required to shave under army regulations, and many continued the practice as prisoners to help maintain their morale and the sense that they were still soldiers.