History of South Korea

The state of Choson, developed in the northwest corner of the peninsula, was the first civilization in Korea. For the next 400 years China governed this territory. Later the Silla defeated their competitors and for the first time created a single political entity in Korea. The next rulers - the Koryo dynasty established an advanced cultural and technological society in Korea. The country entered a period of outstanding cultural and intellectual achievement, especially under the early years of the Choson. In the 19th century Korea became an arguing point between China, Japan, the European powers, and the USA. In 1910 it was a colony of the Japanese Empire.

At the end of World War II the Soviets and Americans agreed to divide Korea. Cross-border incursions increased until full-scale war broke out between the two sides in 1950. For the next three decades, locked into opposing Cold War blocs, the two Koreas went their separate ways. South Korea failed to develop a stable political system. It was governed by a series of civilian and military rulers. Elections to decide the fate of the country were held only in the south, and when the south declared its independence, the north invaded. The ensuing war lasted until 1953. As for the economy South Korea is the world leader in shipbuilding and the automotive business. It is a major force to be reckoned with in electronics, mobile phones, digital displays, and steel.