
16th century Korea
The 16th century Korea was marked by the Joseon Dynasty, a highly structured society known for its Confucian ideals, advancements in culture, and strict social hierarchy. It was a time of political stability but also faced external threats, most notably invasions by Japan (1592–1598), known as the Imjin War or Japanese invasions. The period saw the flourishing of Korean arts, sciences, and Confucian scholarship, shaping the nation's cultural identity. Despite internal stability, military conflicts challenged the country's sovereignty, leading to significant national resilience and eventual recovery.