The New History Of Korean Civilization

by Chai-Shin Yu

Throughout its 4,000-year history, Korea has created a vibrant and unique culture. Unfortunately, many believe it developed solely due to China's influence, thus leaving no room for an independent history and culture. This is simply wrong. The New History of Korean Civilization explores the existence of a distinctive Korean culture established by the Korean people and separate from its Chinese and Japanese counterparts. Author Chai-Shin Yu, distinguished professor of Korean studies, surveys the history of cultural life in Korea and provides a detailed account of this country's remarkable heritage. From the prehistoric age through the rise of the Chosen Dynasty and up to the creation of the Republic of Korea, this concise history traces the development of history, politics, philosophy, religion, literature, and art. Chai-Shin Yu shows how Korean culture also played a vital role in the formation of Japanese culture. Written for the purpose of introducing the roots of Korean culture to Westerners and second-generation Koreans living in the West, The New History of Korean Civilization is a bold addition to the historiography of Korea.

352 pages, Paperback

First published January 5, 2012

Reviews

[Stefaan Van ryssen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Without a solid background in Korean History - and far-east asian history for that matter - it is difficult to follow, not in the least because Yu chooses the pinyin transliteration of Korean names.
Overall structure ok, but the chapters have been built in a somewhat haphazard way. So, not an easy read. Well, I didn't expect a nicely told plot anyway.
What I didn't get is an in-depth analysis of Korean culture, not just an enumeration of Buddhist schools and the like.