Korea's history can be traced back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 700,000 BC. The Korean peninsula was first unified under a single kingdom, Gojoseon, believed to have been founded in 2333 BC.
The period from the 1st century B.C. to the 7th century A.D. is called the Three Kingdoms period. Goguryeo and Baekje were located to the north and southwest of the peninsula, respectively, and Silla to the southeast.
In 668, Silla conquered Baekje and Goguryeo with the help of the Tang Dynasty and established the Unified Silla Kingdom, which lasted until 935. Temples and art flourished.
The Goryeo dynasty (918-1392) succeeded to the unified kingdom of Silla, and during this period Korea developed a unique culture that blended Chinese and Korean traditions. Due to the Mongol invasion in the 13th century, Goryeo had to pay tribute to the Mongols, but maintained its independence.
The Joseon Dynasty was established in 1392 and lasted until the annexation of Korea in 1910. During the Joseon Dynasty, Confucianism became the dominant philosophy and is famous for its achievements in the arts, literature and science. The invention of Hangeul, also known as Hangul, also contributed to this period.
In 1910, Japan annexed Korea and ruled the peninsula until the end of World War II in 1945. In 1948, the Republic of Korea (South Korea) was established, and in 1949, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) was established. Until today