Modern Korean History

  1. The Traditional East Asian Order

    • Definition: The historical system in East Asia in which China held a dominant position, and neighboring states acknowledged China's cultural and political influence. While not directly controlled by China, these states often engaged in tribute missions and adopted Confucian values and practices. Korea was a part of this order and maintained a peaceful relationship with China for centuries. The order was based on the concept of the "tribute system," in which China was seen as the center of the world, and other countries paid tribute to it in exchange for trade and diplomatic relations.

  2. Concept of Sadae

    • Definition: The practice of acknowledging China's greatness and influence, often expressed through diplomatic tributes, recognition of Chinese culture, and adherence to Confucian values. It was a key aspect of Korea's diplomacy and relationship with China. It was an important part of Korea's relationship with China during the traditional East Asian order.

  3. Kyorin Relations (교린, 交隣)

    • Definition: Relations between Korea and Japan, characterized by both cooperation and mistrust. While there was diplomatic interaction, Koreans often viewed the Japanese with suspicion and acknowledged their power. These relations existed during the traditional East Asian order and were characterized by cultural exchange, trade, but also occasional conflict and tension.

  4. Role of Tsushima

    • Definition: The role played by the island of Tsushima as an intermediary in relations between Japan and Korea. It facilitated contact between the two countries and allowed for trade and exchanges. Tsushima played a vital role in facilitating trade and cultural exchange between Korea and Japan during the traditional East Asian order.

  5. Jehol Diary by Pak Chiwon (1737-1805)

    • Definition: A diary written by Pak Chiwon, which emphasized the technological advancements in Qing China during the 18th century. He highlighted these advancements despite Korea's belief in its moral superiority over China. The diary provides insight into the cultural and political relationship between Korea and China during the traditional East Asian order. Pak Chiwon's diary shed light on Qing China's technological superiority in the 18th century, which contrasted with Korea's belief in its moral superiority.

  6. Little Sinocentrism (소중화 小中華)

    • Definition: The term used to describe the influence of Sinocentrism (the belief in China's cultural and political centrality) on Korean society, although to a lesser extent compared to China. It reflects the awareness of Chinese culture and values in Korea. Little Sinocentrism refers to the idea that Korea was a smaller version of China and should follow its cultural and political model. This belief was prevalent among Korean scholars and officials during the traditional East Asian order.

  7. Pak Chiwon's Emphasis on Qing China's Technological Superiority

    • Definition: Pak Chiwon's focus on the advanced technology and development in Qing China during the 18th century in his Jehol Diary. He highlighted these advancements despite Korea's belief in its moral superiority over China. Pak Chiwon's diary emphasized Qing China's technological advancements, which was a significant aspect of the traditional East Asian order.

  8. Early Western Encounters

    • Definition: The initial meetings and interactions between Westerners, such as Dutch sailors like Hendrik Hamel, and Korea during the early modern period. These encounters provided valuable information about Korean society and culture to the Western world. Early Western encounters occurred in the 19th century and were characterized by mutual misunderstanding and cultural clashes.

  9. Arrival of Catholicism

    • Definition: The introduction of Christianity to Korea through Catholic missionaries, which led to the adoption of Western religious practices and ideas, sparking religious change in the country. Catholicism arrived in Korea in the late 18th century and was met with resistance from the Korean government, which saw it as a threat to social order and stability.

  10. Isolation Policy

    • Definition: A policy implemented in Korea during the 18th century to actively keep Western influences out, maintaining strict isolationism and resisting foreign intrusion. The isolation policy was a response to the challenges posed by Western powers and aimed to preserve traditional Korean culture and prevent foreign influence.

  11. Preserving the Peace in Korea

    • Definition: The efforts made by Korea to maintain peace and stability, despite various invasions and interactions with neighboring powers. This was achieved through a well-organized society and government. These efforts were often challenged by factionalism and political unrest.

  12. Factionalism

    • Definition: The presence of competing and often conflicting political factions or groups within the Korean government, characterized by strong personalities and divisions. Factionalism posed a major challenge to the stability of the Korean government in the 19th century.

  13. Taewongun (1821-1898)

    • Definition: A prominent figure in Korean history who played a role in keeping Korea close to its former powers and resisting foreign influences, particularly Catholicism, during the late 19th century. Taewongun served as a regent during the minority of King Gojong and was a controversial figure, both praised for his efforts to modernize Korea and criticized for his authoritarian rule.

  14. Treaty Port System

    • Definition: A system of international treaties that allowed Western powers access to specific Korean ports for trade and economic activities. It often resulted in unequal agreements. The Treaty Port System was a result of Korea's forced opening to the world by Western powers in the late 19th century.

  15. Foreign Disturbances of 1866

    • Definition: Events, including the Sunrise Ship incident and the American ship General Sherman's attempt to navigate the Taedong River, which led to confrontations and violence in Korea involving foreign powers. These disturbances were a response to the perceived threat of Western influence on Korean society.

  16. American’s War with Korea

    • Definition: A conflict in 1871 in which Koreans captured American sailors during the Low-Rogers Expedition, leading to a brief war with the United States. The war resulted from the Korean government's refusal to allow American ships to enter Korean ports.

  17. Opening of Japan

    • Definition: The period during the mid-19th century when Japan ended its isolationist policies and began to engage with the outside world, leading to significant changes in Japanese society and politics. This transformation was a major turning point in Japan's modernization and rise to power.

  18. Japanese Aggression before 1876

    • Definition: Japan's actions before the signing of the Kanghwa Treaty in 1876, including efforts to build a modern navy and tensions with neighboring countries. These actions were a result of Japan's desire to expand its power and influence in East Asia.

  19. Kanghwa Treaty (1876)

    • Definition: A treaty signed in 1876 between Korea and Japan, which marked a significant turning point in Korea's diplomatic history, allowing Japan to establish a stronger presence in Korea. The treaty resulted from Japan's growing power and influence in East Asia and Korea's forced opening to the world.

  20. China’s Role in the Opening of Korea

    • Definition: China's involvement in Korea's diplomatic affairs, including the negotiations leading to treaties and interactions with foreign powers. China's role was a result of Korea's traditional relationship with China and China's desire to maintain its influence in East Asia.

  21. The Enlightenment Faction

    • Definition: A group of individuals or politicians in Korea who were advocates of modernization, openness to Western ideas, and political reforms. They played a key role in bringing about change in Korea. The Enlightenment Faction emerged as a response to the challenges posed by Western powers and the need for modernization.

  22. Coup of 1884

    • Definition: A failed coup attempt in Korea in 1884 led by reformist leaders aiming to modernize the government and society, although it did not achieve its intended objectives. The coup represented a pivotal moment in Korean history, as reformists sought to drive political and societal changes.