The Early Ming Relations with Chosŏn

A Classic Study of Early Ming–Chosŏn Relations

This book traces the relations between the Ming dynasty and Chosŏn Korea from the reigns of the Ming emperors Taizu(明太祖) to Xuanzong(明宣宗) and the Chosŏn kings Taejo(朝鮮太祖) to Sejong(朝鮮世宗), offering a detailed account of the formation and operation of the East Asian international order in the early Ming period. It provides an in-depth examination of key issues such as the Memorial and Diplomatic Correspondence Incident, military campaigns in Liaodong(遼東), the Jingnan Rebellion(靖難之變), and the Jurchen(女真) question, covering virtually all of the central topics in early Ming–Chosŏn relations.

Drawing on decades of scholarly research, the author examines Ming–Chosŏn relations from a Chosŏn perspective while incorporating the dynamics of Ming domestic politics, closely linking the internal political struggles of the Chosŏn dynasty to its diplomatic relations with Ming China. Through a series of insightful interpretations, the work demonstrates remarkable historical scholarship and stands as an indispensable contribution to the study of early Ming–Chosŏn relations and East Asian history.