HISTORY OF KOREA 1

This is a general survey course on pre-modern Korean history, dealing with the context of political, economic, social, and cultural dimensions from the ancient period to the mid-nineteenth century. In addition, we will pay special attention to the “traditional” period, particularly including Koryŏ (918-1392) and Chosŏn (1392-1910) dynasties while discussing Korea’s diverse native innovations, thoughts and religious traditions. Although this is an introductory course, we will deal with many present and thorny issues relevant to the whole Northeast Asia such as Chinese-Korean and Japanese-Korean disputes. Thus, the class will handle the way Korea had related to China and Japan, and the crucial role Korea played in the cultural and political development of Northeast Asia. Also, we will talk about the legacy of traditional Korean culture such as Buddhism and Neo-Confucianism in the present and its implications for the future. At last, not the least, this class also will touch upon an issue of traditional Korean encounter with a new international society, so called European international society, including Christianity and its persecution.

Students will understand Korean traditions and history, so that they will see the roots of contemporary Korean society.

Reading assigned materials before each class and raising questions during the class will be strongly encouraged.

* All the reading assignments will be uploaded into the Moodle at least two weeks before each class.
* Most recommended readings will be in the Asian Studies Library.

- Look at the MOODLE

100% Final Exam (two times in January 2023, One in June and one in August or September 2023)(Short answer or multiple choice questions & Essays).

Lecture and Discussion. Usually, I use PowerPoint slides each week for my lecture, which will deal with reading assignments and more.

English

Bring many questions!

written