KOREA AS HERMIT KINGDOM

Yi Dynsaty (A.K.A Choson and Joseon) – The last dynasty in Korea. It was established by T’aejo. This was considered to be the GOLDEN AGE of Korea.

KING SEJONG – The most popular monarch. During his rule Korea experienced technological advancement . (see page 274 of your book)- He faced challenged during by means of Japan and Manchu (CHINA) invading their country.

During the 19th century traders from Japan and Europe arrived in Korea.

With the thought that Korea would experience the same fate as what China did, Korea closed all its borders from foreign countries to protect its people from colonization.

This act then earned Korea the name HERMIT KINGDOM.

1864, a 13 year old boy by the name of King Gojong became the monarch of Korea. Since he was still at a young age his father Yi-Hae-Ung also knwon as Daewongun or Prince of the great court ruled in his behalf.

On behalf of King Gojong. Daewongun tried to unify the warring groups in Korea.

In 1897 Gojong proclaimed himself emperor of Taehan Empire. This empire signified to the Koreans that they were free despite aggression from Japan. They were able to experience peace until the 1904 – 1905 Russo-Japanese war, Japanese were able to reach Korea and eventually became a colony of Japan in 1910.

Korea was able to defend itself from Western colonization but was unable to escape colonization from another Asian country.

There were 2 countries wanting to colonized Korea.

-Japan and China.

Reasons:

Japan: Thought of Korea as a stepping stone to China

Korea also appeared “LIKE A DAGGER POINTED TOWARDS JAPAN”

China: Korea had always been a recipient of its cultural influences. China therefore considered Korea an Extension of her country.

STUDY HARD .

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