Dol hareubang, also known as the stone grandfathers, stand sentinel across Jeju Island, South Korea. These statues are emblematic of the island’s unique culture and history. Crafted from porous basalt volcanic rock, each Dol hareubang features a broad, smiling face, bulging eyes, a long nose, and a cap resembling a mushroom. Believed to be guardians against evil spirits, they symbolize protection and fertility. Locals began carving Dol hareubang in the 18th century, and they quickly became a distinct symbol of the island. These mysterious figures invite intrigue and admiration for their craftsmanship and the traditions they uphold.
Joseon Dynasty
The Joseon Dynasty, spanning from 1392 to 1897 AD, was a period of profound transformation and enduring legacy in Korean history. Founded by General Yi Seong-gye, who later became King Taejo, the dynasty marked the beginning of a new era following the decline of the Goryeo Dynasty. The Joseon Dynasty is celebrated for its significant contributions to Korean culture, technology, and governance, establishing systems and traditions that resonate in Korea to this day.
One of the major moments in the Joseon Dynasty was the promulgation of the Hangul alphabet in 1446 by King Sejong the Great, the fourth king of Joseon. This was a revolutionary development in Korean history, as Hangul significantly increased literacy among Koreans by providing a simple and systematic way to read and write the Korean language, previously dominated by Chinese characters. King Sejong’s reign is often regarded as the golden age of the Joseon Dynasty, marked by advancements in science, technology, and agriculture.
Religion during the Joseon Dynasty saw a significant shift from Buddhism, which was predominant during the Goryeo period, to Neo-Confucianism. This philosophical and ethical system, based on Confucian teachings, became the official ideology and greatly influenced the dynasty’s governance, culture, and social hierarchy. Neo-Confucianism emphasized moral integrity, filial piety, and loyalty to the state, shaping the ethical standards and social norms of the time.
The social and daily life in the Joseon Dynasty was heavily influenced by Neo-Confucianism, which established a rigid class system. Society was divided into four main classes: the yangban (nobility), the jungin (middle class), the sangmin (commoners), and the cheonmin (lowest class). This hierarchy affected every aspect of daily life, from education and employment opportunities to marriage and social interactions. Despite the strict social structure, the Joseon Dynasty also saw the development of a vibrant culture, including literature, music, and the visual arts.
The Joseon Dynasty was ruled by a total of 27 kings, each contributing to the dynasty’s legacy in various ways. Among the most notable rulers were King Sejong the Great, who fostered cultural and technological advancements, and King Yeongjo, who reigned for 52 years and is known for his efforts to reform the government and strengthen royal authority. The dynasty did not have queens who ruled in their own right, but many queens played significant roles in politics and the court.
Throughout its history, the Joseon Dynasty faced numerous internal and external challenges, including invasions by the Japanese and the Manchus. The Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598), also known as the Imjin War, were particularly devastating. However, Admiral Yi Sun-sin, with his innovative “turtle ships,” played a crucial role in defending Korea and is celebrated as a national hero. The Manchu invasions in the 17th century further tested the dynasty’s resilience, leading to a period of tributary relations with the Qing Dynasty.
The Joseon Dynasty’s decline began in the late 19th century, as internal strife, corruption, and peasant uprisings weakened the state. External pressures from Western powers and Japan, seeking to open Korea to trade and influence, further destabilized the dynasty. The culmination of these pressures led to the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895), after which the Joseon Dynasty became increasingly dependent on foreign powers, setting the stage for the eventual annexation of Korea by Japan in 1910.
The Joseon Dynasty’s legacy is evident in modern Korea, from its legal and governmental systems to the continued use of Hangul and the enduring influence of Neo-Confucian values. The dynasty’s rich cultural heritage, including palaces, tombs, and artifacts, remains a source of national pride and a significant aspect of Korea’s historical identity.