Modern Korean History

Modern Korean history is marked by significant transformations. In the late 19th century, Korea faced external pressures from imperialism, leading to its annexation by Japan in 1910. After Japan's defeat in World War II in 1945, Korea was divided into North and South at the 38th parallel, influenced by Cold War dynamics. The Korean War (1950-1953) solidified this division, resulting in vastly different political, economic, and social systems. South Korea transitioned to a democratic society with rapid economic growth, while North Korea, under a totalitarian regime, remains isolated. Today, issues of reconciliation and reunification persist in both Koreas.