History of Korea

The history of Korea traces societies and states on the Korean Peninsula from prehistoric times through the division into North and South Korea and their subsequent development.

Gojoseon: An early Korean kingdom traditionally dated to antiquity and regarded in Korean tradition as the peninsula’s first state. Its emergence anchors accounts of Korea’s earliest political history.
Silla–Tang War: The conflict in the seventh century in which Silla expelled Tang forces from much of the Korean Peninsula. Its outcome secured Silla’s control over the peninsula’s southern and central regions.
King Sejong the Great: The fourth king of Joseon, who sponsored the creation of Hangul, Korea’s native writing system. His reign linked royal statecraft to a lasting transformation in literacy.
Korea under Japanese rule: The period from 1910 to 1945 when Korea was annexed and governed by the Japanese Empire. Colonial administration and resistance shaped the circumstances of liberation and division.
Ming dynasty: A Chinese dynasty that ruled from 1368 to 1644 and maintained tributary relations with Joseon Korea. Its alliance with Joseon shaped the response to Japan’s sixteenth-century invasions.
Three Kingdoms of Korea: The rival Korean kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, which competed for control of the peninsula and nearby territories. Their rivalry shaped early state formation and cultural exchange.
Mongol invasions of Korea: A series of Mongol campaigns against Goryeo from 1231, followed by Goryeo’s subordination to the Mongol-led Yuan dynasty. The invasions transformed Goryeo’s politics and tied it to the Mongol empire.
Yi Sun-sin: A Joseon naval commander known for victories against Japanese forces during the Imjin War. His campaigns helped defend Joseon’s sea routes during the invasion.
Korean independence movement: The political and armed struggle to end Japanese colonial rule over Korea, especially from 1910 to 1945. Its varied organizations and tactics prepared leaders and institutions for postcolonial Korea.
Qing dynasty: The Manchu-led Chinese dynasty that ruled from 1644 to 1912 and exercised influence over Joseon Korea. Its changing power helps explain Korea’s diplomatic choices in the nineteenth century.

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