1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
