Presenting the richness of Korean civilization from early state formation to the jarring transformations resulting in two distinctive trajectories of modern development, this book introduces the country's major historical events, patterns, and debates. Organised both chronologically and thematically, it explore recurring themes such as Korean identity, external influence, and family and gender. This lively narrative assumes no prior knowledge, inviting readers to appreciate both the distinctiveness and universality of Korean history, while integrating it into East Asian history more broadly.

Fully revised throughout, this second edition explores recent developments in Korean history and places greater emphasis on historiography, with each chapter including extensive discussion of how the events and themes under consideration have been viewed up to the present day.