Dynamic and meticulously researched, A History of Korea continues to
be one of the leading introductory textbooks on Korean history. Assuming
no prior knowledge, Hwang guides readers from early state formation and
the dynastic eras to the modern experience in both North and South
Korea. Structured around episodic accounts, each chapter begins by
discussing a defining moment in Korean history in context, with an
extensive examination of how the events and themes under consideration
have been viewed up to the present day. By engaging with recurring
themes such as collective identity, external influence, social
hierarchy, family and gender, the author introduces the major historical
events, patterns and debates that have shaped both North and South Korea
over the past 1500 years.
This textbook is essential reading for undergraduate and postgraduate
students of Korean or Asian history. The first half of the book covers
pre-20th century history, and the second half the modern era, making it
ideal for survey courses.