Mongol Invasions of Korea

In this episode, we explore the Mongol invasions of Korea, a decades-long struggle between the expanding Mongol Empire and the Goryeo kingdom from 1231 to 1270. We examine how Korea endured repeated waves of invasion through mountain fortresses, island refuges, and guerrilla resistance, resisting full conquest far longer than many other states faced by the Mongols. The episode highlights the devastation of the campaigns, including famine, destruction, and cultural loss, while also tracing how Goryeo preserved its monarchy through tribute, diplomacy, and royal marriage alliances with the Yuan dynasty. Ultimately, we look at how Korea’s resilience allowed the Goryeo dynasty to survive Mongol domination and later regain independence as Yuan power declined.