Ecological Factors in Ancient Korean Military and Diplomatic History

A joint academic conference hosted by the Korean Society of Ancient History and the Institute of History and Culture at Hankuk University of Foreign Studies explored the influence of ecological border areas and climate change on ancient Korean military and diplomatic strategies. The conference, held on February 20th at the Sahyang Convergence Gymnasium of Seoul National University of Education, focused on the transitional zones of Manchuria, the Korean Peninsula, and the Mongolian Plateau.

Shifting Perspectives on Ancient Korean History

The conference represents a departure from traditional historical analyses centered on the Chinese dynasties, instead emphasizing the impact of the natural environment on historical events. Researchers examined how topography and climate influenced warfare and diplomatic relations in ancient Korea.

Key Presentations and Research

Director Lee Chang-seok of the National Institute of Ecology delivered a keynote presentation on the natural environment and ecological border areas of Manchuria and the Korean Peninsula. Further presentations included:

• Professor Ki Gyeong-ryang of the Catholic University of Korea discussed the impact of climate change on migration routes during conflicts between Goguryeo and the Sui-Tang dynasties.
• Professor Park Chan-woo of Chonnam National University analyzed how the marine environment of the Yellow Sea contributed to the breakdown of negotiations between Baekje and Northern Wei.
• Research Professor Na Yu-jeong of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies presented research on the formation of Goguryeo’s transportation routes in the 4th and 5th centuries.
• Professor Kim Jong-bok of Kyungkuk National University analyzed itineraries of Balhae and Tang.
• Professor Choi Sang-gi of Chungbuk National University examined the impact of temperature drops on the Korean Peninsula on military strategy.
• Professor Kim Sang-il of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies concluded the conference by explaining shifts in military and diplomatic routes during the tariff exchange period.

A Recent Methodology for International Relations History

Yeo Ho-gyu, president of the Korean Society of Ancient History, stated the conference aimed to introduce a new research methodology for the history of international relations by examining the influence of natural topography and climate change on historical decision-making. This approach seeks to provide a more nuanced understanding of the factors that shaped ancient Korean history.

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies and Korean Studies

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS), founded in 1954, currently teaches 45 foreign languages and offers studies in a wide range of disciplines including humanities, law, and natural sciences [HUFS Wikipedia]. The Institute of History and Culture at HUFS actively contributes to research in Korean history and culture. Seoul National University of Education [SNU Korean History Department] was established in 1946 and became an independent department in 1969.