Joseon Dynasty

In this episode, we explore the turbulent history of the Joseon Dynasty - a period marked by political upheaval, power struggles, and foreign invasions. From factional infighting and the literati purges under King Jungjong to the dominance of in-law families during Sedo Politics, internal instability shaped much of Joseon's politics. The episode also covers the devastating Japanese invasions of the late 1500s, the Imjin War, and the decisive Ming intervention that helped repel them. Finally, we trace the 17th-century Qing invasions that forced Joseon to abandon its Ming ties and adapt to a new tributary relationship under the Qing Empire.