Major Eras and Events of Korean

Prehistoric Korea

Korean history begins in prehistoric times, a period without written records, studied through artifacts and relics. This era is divided into the Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Ages. During the Paleolithic Age, people lived by hunting and gathering, using primitive tools like stone axes. The Neolithic Age saw the start of agriculture, leading to settled communities and the development of social structures. A key site from this period is the Amsa-dong settlement in Seoul. The Bronze Age introduced advanced tools and weapons made from bronze, and large stone tombs known as dolmens began to appear, indicating the development of social hierarchy and class distinctions.

 

The Founding of Gojoseon

According to legend, Gojoseon was founded in 2333 BCE by Dangun Wanggeom, marking the beginning of Korea's first kingdom. The Dangun myth is deeply tied to the origins of the Korean people. Gojoseon thrived in the northern Korean Peninsula and Manchuria, embracing iron culture and growing powerful through competition with China. However, in 108 BCE, it was destroyed by China's Han Dynasty. Despite its fall, Gojoseon's culture influenced later Korean kingdoms like the Three Kingdoms and beyond.

The Three Kingdoms: Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla

During the Three Kingdoms Period, the kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla rose to power across the Korean Peninsula and parts of Manchuria. These kingdoms assimilated Chinese culture and technology while developing their own unique customs, including the adoption of Buddhism, which greatly impacted art, architecture, and culture.

The Rise and Fall of Goguryeo

Founded by Jumong in 37 BCE, Goguryeo expanded across northern Korea and Manchuria, becoming a military powerhouse. Under King Gwanggaeto the Great and King Jangsu, it achieved its greatest territorial extent. However, Goguryeo eventually fell in 668 CE to the combined forces of Silla and China's Tang Dynasty, though its legacy continued through the establishment of Balhae by former Goguryeo people.

Baekje's Cultural Flourishing

Baekje was founded by King Onjo in 18 BCE and became a dominant power in the southwest. During the reign of King Geunchogo, Baekje reached its peak, fostering vibrant cultural exchanges with China and Japan. However, in 660 CE, Baekje was conquered by the Silla-Tang alliance. Baekje’s cultural influence, especially in the arts and aristocratic traditions, left a lasting impact on Japan.

Silla's Unification of the Three Kingdoms

Although Silla was the smallest and weakest of the three kingdoms, it gradually grew in power. Under King Munmu, Silla allied with the Tang Dynasty to defeat its rivals and unify the Korean Peninsula in 676 CE. This unification marked the first time Korea had been politically unified. The Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto stand as enduring symbols of Silla’s Buddhist culture and artistry.

Unified Silla and Balhae

The Unified Silla period saw Buddhism become a central part of society, with great advancements in art and culture. Notable cultural relics from this era include the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, which represent the pinnacle of Korean Buddhist art. However, internal strife among the ruling elites led to the eventual decline of Silla.

The Founding and Prosperity of Balhae

After the fall of Goguryeo, Dae Joyeong established Balhae in 698 CE, inheriting Goguryeo's cultural legacy. Balhae controlled vast territories in northern Korea and Manchuria, earning the title "Prosperous Country in the East" (Haedong Seongguk). Despite its prosperity, Balhae was ultimately destroyed by the Khitan Liao Dynasty in 926 CE, with its remaining population being absorbed into Goryeo.

The Goryeo Dynasty: Centralization and Flourishing of Buddhist Culture

In 918, Wang Geon founded the Goryeo Dynasty, establishing a new unified kingdom. Goryeo became a cultural and religious hub, particularly with the flourishing of Buddhism. Iconic cultural achievements include Goryeo Celadon pottery and the Tripitaka Koreana, a comprehensive collection of Buddhist scriptures carved on wooden blocks.

Goryeo's Diplomacy and the Mongol Invasions

Goryeo maintained complex relations with neighboring powers such as China, Japan, and the Jurchens. However, in the 13th century, Goryeo faced significant challenges during the Mongol invasions, which brought great hardship. Despite Mongol domination, Goryeo managed to preserve its sovereignty and culture.

The Joseon Dynasty: Confucian Society and the Strengthening of the Monarchy

In 1392, Yi Seong-gye overthrew Goryeo and founded the Joseon Dynasty. Joseon adopted Neo-Confucianism as its state ideology, promoting a highly organized Confucian social structure. One of the most significant achievements of this period was the creation of Hangul (Korean alphabet) by King Sejong the Great. Joseon saw advancements in scholarship, technology, and the arts.

The Imjin War and Manchu Invasions

In the late 16th century, Korea was invaded twice: first by Japan during the Imjin War (1592–1598) and then by the Manchu Invasions (1636–1637). These wars led to significant military and political reforms in Korea.

Modern Korea: Colonial Rule and the Struggle for Independence

In the late 19th century, Korea opened its ports to foreign powers, which eventually led to the country falling under Japanese colonial rule (1910–1945). During this time, Japan implemented harsh policies of economic exploitation and cultural suppression. The March 1st Movement of 1919 and the establishment of the Korean Provisional Government were key moments in Korea's resistance against colonial rule. Korea was liberated in 1945 following Japan's defeat in World War II.

The Establishment of the Republic of Korea and Modern History

After liberation, Korea was divided into two separate governments, leading to the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. Following the war, South Korea experienced rapid economic growth known as the Miracle on the Han River. The country also achieved democracy through the June Democratic Uprising of 1987.

Democratization and Economic Growth

South Korea's democratization in the 1980s and its subsequent economic growth positioned it as a leading global economy. The rise of Hallyu (the Korean Wave) has further boosted its cultural influence worldwide.

Conclusion

Korean history, spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era, has been marked by significant cultural, political, and social developments. Understanding Korea's historical journey is crucial to appreciating its present-day identity and role in the global community.