Contents
Prehistoric Era
Divided into the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, and Iron Ages, this period marks the earliest human settlement and cultural formation on the Korean peninsula.
Gojoseon Period (c. 2333 BCE – 108 BCE)
The first recorded state in Korean history, spanning the Korean peninsula and parts of Manchuria, which developed upon Bronze and Iron Age cultures.
Proto-Three Kingdoms & Three Kingdoms Period (1st century BCE – 668 CE)
Following early state formations, the peninsula was dominated by the three major kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, alongside the Gaya confederacy in the south.
North-South States Period (668 – 935)
A period of coexistence between Unified Silla in the south, which unified the Three Kingdoms, and Balhae in the north, founded by former Goguryeo people in the Manchuria region.
Goryeo Dynasty (918 – 1392)
Founded by Wang Geon after unifying the Later Three Kingdoms. Buddhism flourished as the state religion, and this dynasty became the origin of the modern English name "Korea."
Joseon Dynasty (1392 – 1897)
Founded by Yi Seong-gye, this era was deeply rooted in Neo-Confucianism. It saw significant advancements in science and national culture, most notably the invention of the Hangul alphabet by King Sejong the Great.
Korean Empire & Japanese Colonial Period (1897 – 1945)
Joseon changed its name to the "Korean Empire" to pursue independent modernization but lost its sovereignty in 1910. Korea remained under Japanese colonial rule until liberation at the end of World War II in 1945.
Modern Era (1945 – Present)
Following liberation, the peninsula was divided by ideological conflicts, leading to the devastating Korean War (1950–1953). Since then, South Korea (Republic of Korea) has successfully achieved remarkable economic growth and democratization under a liberal democratic system.