milal

Milal refers to a historical Korean concept that describes a period of societal decline or decay. The term literally translates to "fall of the nation" or "national ruin." It is often used to describe periods of internal strife, corruption, or external threats that led to the weakening and eventual collapse of Korean dynasties or kingdoms.

Historically, the concept of milal has been invoked to explain the fall of various Korean states, such as the later years of the Silla kingdom or the Joseon dynasty. These periods were often characterized by political infighting, the rise of powerful factions, economic hardship, and a perceived loss of moral integrity among the ruling class. External invasions or pressures from neighboring powers also contributed to the sense of milal.

The idea of milal carries a strong sense of lament and often serves as a cautionary tale. It reflects a deep-seated concern for national identity and stability within Korean history and culture. Understanding milal involves examining the specific historical circumstances that led to periods of crisis, as well as the cultural and philosophical interpretations that have been applied to these events. The term is not necessarily a formal historical period but rather a descriptive concept used to understand and interpret periods of significant national distress and decline.