History of Korea

Comparing Lunar New Year Customs in North and South Korea Comparing Lunar New Year Customs in North and South Korea Description: Discover the surprising differences in how North and South Koreans celebrate Lunar New Year. From ancestral rites to food, this cultural comparison unveils political and historical layers behind modern traditions. 1. The Historical Roots of Korean Lunar New Year 2. Charye and Rituals: Ancestor Worship and Its Variations 3. Food and Festive Tables: Tteokguk vs. Revolutionary Cuisine 4. Gifts, Greetings, and Social Norms 5. State Influence: How Regimes Shape Celebrations 6. Reunification Hopes Reflected in Family Traditions 1. The Historical Roots of Korean Lunar New Year Lunar New Year, known as Seollal in Korea, traces back over a thousand years. Rooted in Confucian values and agrarian calendars, both North and South Korea have preserved the tradition through political upheavals. However, thei...

Hanji Crafts: The Timeless Art of Traditional Korean Paper Hanji Crafts: The Timeless Art of Traditional Korean Paper Description: Discover the captivating world of traditional Korean hanji crafts —from its historical origins to its modern-day artistry. Learn how this ancient paper, handmade from mulberry bark, continues to inspire creators and preserve cultural identity in the heart of Korea. 1. What is Hanji? The Origins of Korea's Traditional Paper 2. The Hanji-Making Process: Nature Meets Craftsmanship 3. Traditional Uses of Hanji in Korean Daily Life 4. Modern Hanji Crafts: Innovation Through Tradition 5. Where to See and Learn Hanji Today 6. Why Hanji Still Matters: Cultural and Artistic Value 1. What is Hanji? The Origins of Korea's Traditional Paper Hanji (한지) is the traditional handmade paper of Korea, known for its durability, breathability, and versatility. Made from the inner bark of the mulberry tre...

The Grain Transport System (Jounje) of Goryeo – Ancient Logistics The Grain Transport System (Jounje) of Goryeo – Ancient Logistics Description: Uncover the sophisticated logistics system of the Goryeo Dynasty that powered its economy and administration. Jounje—the ancient grain transport network—was Korea’s pre-modern supply chain engine. 1. What Was Jounje? A Definition 2. Why Grain? The Lifeblood of Goryeo’s Economy 3. Infrastructure and Transport Methods 4. Administrative Roles and Supervision 5. Challenges and Reforms in the System 6. Legacy and Modern Comparisons 1. What Was Jounje? A Definition The term "Jounje" (조운제, 漕運制) refers to the grain transport system of the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392), a highly organized logistical network responsible for collecting, storing, and transporting grain—especially rice—from provincial regions to the central government in Gaegyeong (modern-day Kaesong). This system was f...

Yun Bong-gil’s Heroic Act in Shanghai – A Legacy Remembered Yun Bong-gil’s Heroic Act in Shanghai – A Legacy Remembered Description: Explore the extraordinary story of Yun Bong-gil’s 1932 bombing in Shanghai—a defining act of resistance against Japanese imperialism—and discover how his bravery shaped modern Korean identity. 1. Who Was Yun Bong-gil? 2. Historical Context: Korea Under Japanese Rule 3. The Shanghai Bombing: April 29, 1932 4. Global Reactions and Long-Term Impact 5. Yun Bong-gil’s Legacy in Modern Korea 6. Commemoration and Continued Relevance 1. Who Was Yun Bong-gil? Yun Bong-gil (1908–1932) was a Korean independence activist whose name became immortalized through a single, audacious act of defiance against Japanese colonial rule. Born in Yesan, South Chungcheong Province, Yun was an ordinary man with extraordinary conviction. A poet, teacher, and patriot, he was deeply moved by the plight of his nation under...

Five Traditional Korean Pansori Masterpieces Explained Five Traditional Korean Pansori Masterpieces Explained Description: Dive into the world of Korean pansori, where powerful voices and rhythmic drums tell epic tales of love, loyalty, and laughter. Here’s a breakdown of the five great pansori classics every culture lover should know. 1. What Is Pansori? A Brief Overview 2. Chunhyangga – Love, Virtue, and Resistance 3. Simcheongga – Filial Piety and Sacrifice 4. Heungbuga – Humor and the Morality of Generosity 5. Jeokbyeokga – War Heroes and the Code of Loyalty 6. Sugungga – Satire, Wit, and Animal Kingdom Politics 1. What Is Pansori? A Brief Overview Pansori is a traditional Korean musical storytelling performance, where a single vocalist narrates an epic tale accompanied by a drummer playing the buk (a barrel drum). The singer uses a range of expressive vocalizations, gestures, and emotional depth to portray multiple ch...

Suwon Hwaseong Fortress – Urban Planning and Reform Under King Jeongjo Suwon Hwaseong Fortress – Urban Planning and Reform Under King Jeongjo Description: Discover how Suwon Hwaseong Fortress reflects King Jeongjo’s progressive vision of urban planning, military reform, and national revival. A rare intersection of engineering, politics, and Confucian ideals in Joseon Korea. 1. Historical Background: King Jeongjo’s Reign and Vision 2. The Construction of Hwaseong Fortress 3. Technological Innovation and Architecture 4. Urban Planning as Political Statement 5. Legacy in Modern Korea 6. Visiting Hwaseong Today 1. Historical Background: King Jeongjo’s Reign and Vision King Jeongjo (r. 1776–1800), often called the “Renaissance King” of Joseon, envisioned a revitalized, modernized Korea rooted in Confucian virtue and reformist governance. Deeply influenced by the tragic death of his father, Crown Prince Sado, Jeongjo sought to c...