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How Did The Joseon Dynasty Reign In Korea For 500 Years? | The Mark Of Empire (Full Episode)

CNA Insider・19 minutes read

Peter Lee delves into the rise and fall of four kingdoms in Japan and Korea, including the transformation of Seoul into a modern city. The text explores key historical events and cultural aspects, such as the influence of Confucianism, traditional practices like Bojagi, and innovations like the Turtle Ship.

Insights

  • The transformation of Seoul into an ultra-modern global city over the last three decades reflects a significant shift in urban development and economic growth in South Korea.
  • The history of Korea, including the rise and fall of kingdoms, the influence of Chinese ideals, and the impact of key figures like King Tejo and Admiral Yi Sun-sin, highlights a rich and complex cultural heritage that has shaped the country's identity and societal norms.

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Recent questions

  • What is the significance of the Turtle Ship?

    The Turtle Ship, designed by Admiral Yi Sun-sin, played a crucial role in stalling the Japanese invasion of Korea in the 16th century.

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Summary

00:00

"Exploring Untold Histories of Korean Kingdoms"

  • Peter Lee, a Singaporean scholar of Puranakan descent, embarks on a journey to explore untold histories.
  • He delves into the rise and fall of four distinct kingdoms on the Japanese Isles and the Korean Peninsula.
  • The city of Seoul has transformed into an ultra-modern global city over the past three decades.
  • King Tejo of Korea, in 1392, moved the capital to Hanyang (present-day Seoul) and built the seat of his kingdom.
  • The reconstruction of the palace in Seoul, damaged during the Korean War, is set to be completed by 2045.
  • The Chosen Kingdom was influenced by Chinese ideals of Confucianism, emphasizing a rigid hierarchy.
  • The elite troop guarding the Chosen Palace, called the Yangban, were skilled archers, reflecting their character and prowess.
  • Bojagi, a traditional wrapping cloth, symbolizes female empowerment in a patriarchal society.
  • Rice farming techniques on Chongsan Island in Korea involved terraced rice paddies and underground aqueducts.
  • The Turtle Ship, designed by Admiral Yi Sun-sin, played a crucial role in stalling the Japanese invasion of Korea in the 16th century.

31:16

Evolution of Joseon Dynasty to Modern Korea

  • Dance drama in Joseon Dynasty allowed commoners to express opinions through exaggerated masks mocking different social classes.
  • Abuse of power by the Yangban nobility led to inequality and exploitation of common folk, prompting the need for reform in the 18th century.
  • King Jeongjo's reform efforts at Hwaseong Fortress symbolized a new vision for Joseon but were cut short by his sudden death in 1800.
  • Spread of Christianity in the 19th century marked a shift in Korean society, leading to significant changes and the rise of mega churches.
  • Japanese occupation in 1910 marked the end of the 500-year-old Joseon Dynasty, with South Korea now balancing tradition and modernization in fashion and music.
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