Old Chosŏn

Quick Facts: Who was Old Chosŏn?

Subject:

Old Chosŏn

Known for:

The first kingdom on the Korean Peninsula, with origins rooted in myth and history.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Old Chosŏn, also known as Gojoseon (Korean: 고조선; Hanja: 古朝鮮) and its contemporary name Joseon (Korean: 조선; Hanja: 朝鮮), was the first kingdom on the Korean Peninsula. According to Korean mythology, the kingdom was established by the legendary king Tan'gun. Old Chosŏn possessed the most advanced culture in the Korean Peninsula at the time and was an important marker in the progression towards the more centralized states of later periods. The addition of Go (고; 古), meaning "old" or "ancient", is used in historiography to distinguish the kingdom from the Joseon, which was founded in 1392. According to the Samguk yusa, Old Chosŏn was established in 2333 BCE by Tan'gun, who was said to be born from the heavenly prince Hwanung and a bear-woman, Ungnyeo.

Career & Major Achievements

While Tan'gun is a mythological figure, some interpret his legend as a reflection of the sociocultural conditions of the kingdom's early development. The account of Tan'gun has played an important role in the development of Korean identity. Today, the founding date of Old Chosŏn is officially celebrated as Gaecheonjeol ('National Foundation Day') in North and South Korea. Chinese sources such as the Shangshu dazhuan and the Book of Documents claim that in the 12th century BCE, following the establishment of Old Chosŏn, Jizi (also known as Kija), a sage who belonged to the royal family from the Shang dynasty, immigrated to the northern part of the Korean Peninsula and became the founder of Kija Chosŏn. There are many interpretations of Old Chosŏn and Kija Chosŏn as well as debates regarding Kija Chosŏn's existence.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 194 BCE, the ruling dynasty of Old Chosŏn was overthrown by Wi Man, a refugee from the Han vassal state of Yan, who then established Wiman Joseon. In 108 BCE, the Han dynasty, under Emperor Wu, invaded and conquered Wiman Joseon. The Han established four commanderies to administer the former Old Chosŏn territory. After the fragmentation of the Han Empire during the 3rd century and the subsequent chaotic 4th century, the area escaped Chinese control and was conquered by Goguryeo in 313 CE. The capital of Old Chosŏn was Wanggeom-seong (now Pyongyang) from at least the 2nd century BCE.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1392: 1392 Milestone — The addition of Go (고; 古), meaning "old" or "ancient", is used in historiography to distinguish the kingdom from the Joseon, which was founded in 1392.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Old Chosŏn

True or False: “Did the Han dynasty conquer Old Chosŏn directly after its founding by Tan'gun?”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The Han dynasty conquered Wiman Joseon in 108 BCE; the initial conquest was much later.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Old Kingdom of Egypt — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: The 'Age of the Pyramids,' representing Egypt's first peak of civilization (c. 2686–2181 BC).
• Old Tom Morris — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Scottish golfing legend, known as 'Old Tom', dominated the sport for decades.
• Ole Einar Bjørndalen — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Legendary Norwegian biathlete, the 'King of Biathlon', with 95 World Cup wins.
• Ole Kirk Christiansen — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Danish carpenter and founder of The Lego Group, transforming toys through wood to plastic.
• Ole Worm — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Danish physician, natural historian, and antiquary who taught at the University of Copenhagen.
• Oleg Blokhin — Chrono-Wiki Encyclopedia Entry: Legendary Ukrainian striker, record goalscorer for Dynamo Kyiv and the USSR.

Frequently Asked Questions about Old Chosŏn