Jeguk

Jeguk, also known as Gojoseon, was one of the earliest known states in the Korean Peninsula. It is believed to have existed from around 2333 BCE to 108 BCE, making it one of the oldest known states in East Asia. The exact location of Jeguk is debated among scholars, with some suggesting it was in the northern part of the Korean Peninsula, while others propose it was in the southern part or even in Manchuria.

The earliest historical records of Jeguk come from Chinese texts, particularly the Records of the Grand Historian by Sima Qian. These records mention that Jeguk was a tributary state of the Shang dynasty of China. The state is known for its advanced metallurgy and ironworking, which was a significant technological achievement for the time.

Jeguk is also notable for its role in the early history of Korea. It is believed to have been succeeded by the state of Buyeo, which later became a major player in the Three Kingdoms period of Korean history. The exact nature of the transition from Jeguk to Buyeo is not well understood, but it is clear that Jeguk played a significant role in the early development of Korean civilization.

Despite its historical significance, Jeguk is not as well-known as some other early Korean states, such as Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla. This may be due to the lack of detailed historical records about Jeguk compared to these later states. However, recent archaeological discoveries have shed new light on the existence and culture of Jeguk, providing a more comprehensive understanding of this early Korean state.