The first people known to have inhabited the Korean Peninsula were the Yemaek, a nomadic people who lived in the northern part of the peninsula. The Yemaek were followed by the Three Hans, a group of three small kingdoms that existed in the southern part of the peninsula. The Three Hans were later统一(tong-il) into the Silla Kingdom.
Silla Kingdom
The Silla Kingdom was founded in 57 BCE and lasted until 935 CE. It was the longest-lasting kingdom in Korean history. During the Silla period, Buddhism was introduced to Korea from China and became the state religion. Silla also saw the development of a unique form of Korean art and culture.
Goryeo Kingdom
The Goryeo Kingdom was founded in 918 CE and lasted until 1392 CE. It was the second-longest-lasting kingdom in Korean history. The Goryeo Kingdom was a time of great cultural and economic development. The Mongols invaded Korea in the 13th century and ruled for about a century.
Joseon Dynasty
The Joseon Dynasty was founded in 1392 CE and lasted until 1910 CE. It was the last dynasty to rule Korea. The Joseon Dynasty was a time of relative stability and prosperity for Korea. The arts, literature, and science all flourished during this time.
Japanese Rule
Korea was annexed by Japan in 1910. The Japanese ruled Korea for 35 years. During the Japanese occupation, Koreans were forced to speak Japanese and adopt Japanese customs. Many Koreans were also killed or injured by the Japanese.
Independence and Division
Korea was liberated from Japanese rule in 1945. The country was then divided into two parts, North Korea and South Korea. North Korea is a communist state, while South Korea is a democratic state. The two Koreas have been at war with each other since 1950.
Present Day
Today, Korea is a developed country with a high standard of living. North Korea is a closed society, while South Korea is a free and democratic country. The two Koreas are still divided, but there is hope that they will someday be reunified.