GNED 15 - LITERATURE OF KOREA

Baekje Kingdom

One of the three ancient Korean kingdoms, known for its cultural achievements and influence in East Asia, particularly in the spread of Buddhism. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site along with the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto

Buddhist

A major religion in Korea, which has a distinct form known as Korean Buddhism. It has significantly influenced Korean culture and was particularly prominent before being suppressed during the Joseon era

Bulguksa Temple

An important Buddhist temple in Korea, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, built during the Silla Kingdom. It is noted for its architectural beauty and historical significance

Changgyeong Palace

A historical palace in Seoul, originally constructed during the Choson Dynasty, which served as a royal residence and is now a popular tourist attraction

Choson Dynasty

Also known as the Joseon Dynasty, it was a significant period in Korean history that lasted for approximately five centuries, during which Confucianism became the state ideology

Christianity

The largest religious group in South Korea, with Protestantism being the most prevalent denomination. It gained acceptance in Korea during the late 19th century, particularly as it played a role in the anti-colonial struggle against Japanese rule

Confucianism

A philosophical system that has deeply influenced Korean society, particularly during the Joseon Dynasty, shaping moral values, social structure, and national law

Dongdaemun

A historical gate in Seoul, known as the "Gate of Uplift," which is one of the few remaining gates from the original city wall built during the Choson Dynasty

Gyeongbok

Refers to Gyeongbokgung Palace, the main royal palace of the Joseon Dynasty, constructed in 1395 and a key historical site in Seoul

Hanbok

Traditional Korean clothing, characterized by vibrant colors and simple lines, often worn during festivals and celebrations

Hangul

The official script of both South Korea and North Korea, developed in the 15th century to promote literacy among the Korean people

hyangch’al

An early system of transcription that allowed Koreans to write in Chinese, which was used before the development of Hangul

hyangga

A traditional form of Korean poetry that is one of the oldest poetic forms, often written in the hyangch’al system

idu

A system developed to allow Koreans to read and write using Chinese characters, which was prevalent before the invention of Hangul

juche idea

A political ideology developed in North Korea, emphasizing self-reliance and independence, particularly in the context of governance and economic policy

kasa

A form of Korean poetry that emerged around the same time as sijo, characterized by its lyrical style and often influenced by Chinese poetry

kimchi

A traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, typically seasoned with spices, and is a staple in Korean cuisine

Koguryo

One of the three ancient kingdoms of Korea, known for its military prowess and cultural achievements, particularly during the 5th and 6th centuries

Korea

A peninsula in East Asia, historically divided into North and South Korea after World War II, each developing distinct political and cultural identities

Koryŏ period

A historical period in Korea from which the name "Korea" is derived, known for its advancements in culture, art, and the establishment of a centralized government

Mongoloid

A term historically used to describe a group of people, including Koreans, characterized by certain physical traits; however, its use is now considered outdated and potentially offensive

naengmyon

A cold noodle dish that is popular in Korea, especially during the summer months, often served with a tangy broth

P’yongyang

The capital city of North Korea, known for its significant monuments and as the political center of the country

pulkobi

A traditional Korean dish made from thinly sliced beef, often marinated and grilled, similar to bulgogi

pyŏlgok

A traditional form of Korean poetry, often characterized by its lyrical and musical qualities

Roh Tae Woo

A former president of South Korea who played a significant role in the country's transition to democracy in the late 20th century

Samguk yusa

A historical text that chronicles the history and legends of the Three Kingdoms of Korea, serving as a vital source for understanding early Korean history

Seoul

The capital city of South Korea, known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and as a major economic center

sijo

A traditional form of Korean poetry consisting of three lines, each with a specific syllable count, and is one of the most enduring poetic forms in Korea

Silla kingdom

One of the three ancient kingdoms of Korea, known for its cultural achievements and for unifying the Korean peninsula under its rule

Sinawi

A form of traditional Korean music characterized by improvisation, often performed during shamanistic rituals

Syngman Rhee

The first president of South Korea, who played a significant role during the Korean War and in the establishment of the Republic of Korea

Won Buddhism

A modern religious movement in Korea that seeks to adapt traditional Buddhist teachings to contemporary life