Kusul

Kusul is a term that can refer to several things, most notably a type of traditional Korean soup and a historical political event. In Korean cuisine, kusul (sometimes spelled "guksu" or "guksoo") generally refers to noodles, particularly wheat flour noodles. These noodles are a staple and are prepared in numerous ways, often served in a broth or as a chilled noodle dish. The specific preparation and accompanying ingredients can vary widely by region and occasion, but the fundamental element is the noodle itself.

Historically, the term kusul is also associated with a significant political event in Korea known as the Kusul Purification (구술 숙청). This occurred during the reign of King Yeonsan of the Joseon Dynasty in the early 16th century. The Kusul Purification was a period of brutal political purges where King Yeonsan ordered the execution and exile of many scholars and officials, particularly those associated with the previous king's policies or who were perceived as threats. This event deeply impacted the political landscape of the Joseon Dynasty and is remembered as a dark chapter in its history. The exact etymology of the term "Kusul" in this context is debated, but it signifies a period of severe political upheaval and repression.