Joseon missions to Japan
Encyclopedia
Joseon missions to Japan represent a crucial aspect of the international relations of mutual Joseon
-Japanese
contacts and communication. In sum, these serial diplomatic ventures illustrate the persistence of Joseon's kyorin
(neighborly relations) diplomacy from 1392 to 1910.
The chronology of one side in a bilateral relationship stands on its own. This long-term, strategic policy contrasts with the sadae
(serving the great) diplomacy which characterized the Joseon-Chinese
relations in this same period.
The unique nature of these bilateral diplomatic exchanges evolved from a conceptual framework developed by the Chinese. Gradually, the theoretical model would be modified. The changing model mirrors the evolution of a unique relationship between two neighboring states. In the 20th century, Joseon's neighborly relations diplomacy failed.
established the "Kingdom of Great Joseon" in 1392-1393, and he founded the Yi dynasty which would retain power on the Korean peninsula for five hundred years. An early achievement of the new monarch was improved relations with China; and indeed, Joseon had its origin in General Yi's refusal to attack China in response to raids from Chinese bandits. The Joseon foreign policy would evolve from pre-existing foundations. For example, Goryeo envoy Jeong Mongju travelled to Japan in 1377; and the consequences of his efforts were only seen later.
As an initial step, a diplomatic mission was dispatched to Japan in 1402. The Joseon envoy sought to bring about the re-establishment of amicable relations between the two countries and he was charged to commemorate the good relations which existed in ancient times. This mission was successful; and Shogun
Ashikaga Yoshimitsu
was reported to have been favorably impressed by this initial embassy. Subsequent missions developed and nurtured the contacts and exchanges between the two neighboring countries.
Not less than 70 diplomatic missions were dispatched from the Joseon capital to Japan before the beginning of Japan's Edo period
. A diplomatic mission conventionally consisted of three envoys—the main envoy, the vice-envoy, and a document official. Also included were one or more official writers or recorders who created a detailed account of the mission. Artists were also included in the diplomatic delegation.
Reciprocal missions were construed as a means of communication between sovereigns of equal ranking. Although Japan was ruled by an emperor, and not a king, the shogun
s were represented as "king of Japan" in many foreign communications in order to fit into the Sinocentric world order
in which the emperor of China
was the highest authority, and all rulers of tributary states were known as "kings".
The history of Yi diplomacy can be parsed in four parts: (a) before the Japanese invasions in 1592-1598; (b) in the context of the invasion; (c) after the invasion; and (d) in modern times.
The Joseon diplomatic contacts and communication with Japan encompassed formal embassies to the Muromachi bakufu
. Joseon diplomacy also included the more frequent and less formal exchanges with the Japanese daimyo (feudal lord) of Tsushima Island
.
In addition, trade missions between merchants of the area were commonplace. For example, more than 60 trade missions per year marked the period from 1450 through 1500.
, a diplomatic mission was sent to Japan.
5, 8th month). Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimochi
presented the envoy with a formal diplomatic letter; and presents were given for the envoy to convey to the Joseon court.
in Japan.
was the chief envoy sent by the Joseon court. The ambassador was received in Kyoto by Ashikaga Yoshimasa
.
in 1582. The less formal contacts with the leaders of the Sō clan
on Tsushima continued.
Diplomacy was set aside in 1592 when Japanese armies invaded Joseon territory. The ruptured bilateral relations were not restored immediately after the death of Hideyoshi in 1598; but the invading forces gradually withdrew from occupied land on the Korean peninsula.
, a diplomatic mission led by Hwang Yun-gil
was sent by the Joseon court to Japan. The Joseon ambassador was received by the Japanese leader, Toyotomi Hideyoshi
.
accompanied the Ming ambassadors who traveled to Japan.
, representatives of the Joseon court were dispatched to Japan. This diplomatic mission functioned to the advantage of both the Japanese and the Koreans as a channel for developing a political foundation for trade. This embassy traveled to Edo for an audience with Shogun Tokugawa Hidetada
in the 12th year of Keicho
, according to the Japanese era name
in use at this time. Yŏ Ugil was the chief Joseon envoy; and there was 467 others accompanying him.
, the Joseon court dispatched a mission to Edo; but the embassy travelled only as far as Kyoto. The delegation was received by Shogun Hidetada at Fushimi Castle
in the 3rd year of Genna
, as the Japanese reckoned time. The chief envoy was O Yun'gyŏm and there were 428 others in his party.
, a delegation was sent to Edo with Chŏng Ip as its chief envoy. The size of this diplomatic numbered 460. Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu
received the ambassador in Edo. The Joseon embassy was considered a significant event in the 1st year of Kanei
, according to the Japanese calendar,
. The size of the Joseon delegation was 477. The delegation arrived at the shogunal court in Edo on the 20th year of Kan'ei, as reckoned by the Japanese calendar. This delegation was received in the court of Shogun Iemitsu; and they also completed a visit to Shogun Ieaysu's mausoleum at Nikkō.
, the Joseon court sent a mission to the shogunal court of Tokugawa Ietsuna
. This mission arrived in Japan during the 1st year of Meireki
, according to in the Japanese dating system. Cho Hyŏng was the chief envoy of the Joseon embassy, and his retinue numbered 485. After the embassy was received in the shogunate court at Edo; and the delegation proceeded the Tōshō-gū at Nikkō.
, a diplomatic mission to the shogunal court of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi
was dispatched from the Joseon court. Yun Jiwan
was the chief emissary; and he was accompanied by 473 others, traveling to Edo during the 2nd year of Tenna
according to the Japanese calendar.
. This embassy arrived in the 1st year of Shōtoku
, according to the Japanese calendar. Jo Tae-eok
was the chief envoy of this diplomatic embassy; and the size of his delegation numbered 500.
, as reckoned by the Japanese calendar in use at that time. King Sukjong sent Hong Ch'ijung with a retinue of 475. The Joseon ambassador was granted an audience with Shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune
.
, the Joseon court sent a diplomatic mission to Japan. The Joseon envoy and his retinue arrived in Edo in the 1st year of Kan'en, according to the Japanese caledar. The chief envoy of this Joseon delegation was Hong Kyehǔi; and he was accompanied by 475 others.
arrived in the shogunal capital the 1st year of Meiwa
, as reckoned by the Japanese calendar. Jo Eom
was the chief envoy in 1764; and 477 traveled with him. This ambassador is important historical figure because he is credited with introducing potatoes as a food crop in Korea. The "new" food staple was encountered during the course of this diplomatic mission.
, the king sent a mission to the shogunal court of Tokugawa Ienari. The embassy did not travel any further than Tsushima
. The representatives of Shogun Ienari met the mission on the island which is located in the middle of the Korea Strait
between the Korean Peninsula
and Kyushu
. The chief envoy of this mission was Kim Igyo
; and there were 336 in his retinue.
Joseon
Joseon, Chosŏn, Choseon or Chosun are English spellings of the Korean *word for "Korea". It may refer to:*Korea*Gojoseon, the first Korean kingdom, from 2333 BC to 108 BC.*Joseon Dynasty of Korea, from AD 1392 to 1910....
-Japanese
Japan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south...
contacts and communication. In sum, these serial diplomatic ventures illustrate the persistence of Joseon's kyorin
Gyorin
Gyorin was a neo-Confucian term developed in Joseon Korea. The term was intended to identify and characterize a diplomatic policy which establishes and maintains amicable relations with neighboring states...
(neighborly relations) diplomacy from 1392 to 1910.
The chronology of one side in a bilateral relationship stands on its own. This long-term, strategic policy contrasts with the sadae
Sadae
Sadae is a Korean historical and philosophical term.It may also refer to:* Sadae , a governmental office of Taebong* Sadaejuui , a modern Korean polemical term...
(serving the great) diplomacy which characterized the Joseon-Chinese
China
Chinese civilization may refer to:* China for more general discussion of the country.* Chinese culture* Greater China, the transnational community of ethnic Chinese.* History of China* Sinosphere, the area historically affected by Chinese culture...
relations in this same period.
The unique nature of these bilateral diplomatic exchanges evolved from a conceptual framework developed by the Chinese. Gradually, the theoretical model would be modified. The changing model mirrors the evolution of a unique relationship between two neighboring states. In the 20th century, Joseon's neighborly relations diplomacy failed.
Joseon diplomacy
General Yi Seong-gye (posthumously known as Taejo of JoseonTaejo of Joseon
Taejo of Joseon , born Yi Seong-gye, whose changed name is Yi Dan, was the founder and the first king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, and the main figure in overthrowing the Goryeo Dynasty...
established the "Kingdom of Great Joseon" in 1392-1393, and he founded the Yi dynasty which would retain power on the Korean peninsula for five hundred years. An early achievement of the new monarch was improved relations with China; and indeed, Joseon had its origin in General Yi's refusal to attack China in response to raids from Chinese bandits. The Joseon foreign policy would evolve from pre-existing foundations. For example, Goryeo envoy Jeong Mongju travelled to Japan in 1377; and the consequences of his efforts were only seen later.
As an initial step, a diplomatic mission was dispatched to Japan in 1402. The Joseon envoy sought to bring about the re-establishment of amicable relations between the two countries and he was charged to commemorate the good relations which existed in ancient times. This mission was successful; and Shogun
Shogun
A was one of the hereditary military dictators of Japan from 1192 to 1867. In this period, the shoguns, or their shikken regents , were the de facto rulers of Japan though they were nominally appointed by the emperor...
Ashikaga Yoshimitsu
Ashikaga Yoshimitsu
was the 3rd shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who ruled from 1368 to 1394 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshimitsu was the son of the second shogun Ashikaga Yoshiakira....
was reported to have been favorably impressed by this initial embassy. Subsequent missions developed and nurtured the contacts and exchanges between the two neighboring countries.
Not less than 70 diplomatic missions were dispatched from the Joseon capital to Japan before the beginning of Japan's Edo period
Edo period
The , or , is a division of Japanese history which was ruled by the shoguns of the Tokugawa family, running from 1603 to 1868. The political entity of this period was the Tokugawa shogunate....
. A diplomatic mission conventionally consisted of three envoys—the main envoy, the vice-envoy, and a document official. Also included were one or more official writers or recorders who created a detailed account of the mission. Artists were also included in the diplomatic delegation.
Reciprocal missions were construed as a means of communication between sovereigns of equal ranking. Although Japan was ruled by an emperor, and not a king, the shogun
Shogun
A was one of the hereditary military dictators of Japan from 1192 to 1867. In this period, the shoguns, or their shikken regents , were the de facto rulers of Japan though they were nominally appointed by the emperor...
s were represented as "king of Japan" in many foreign communications in order to fit into the Sinocentric world order
Sinocentrism
Sinocentrism is an ethnocentric perspective that regards China to be the center of civilization and superior to all other nations. The related but distinct concept of the superiority of the Han Chinese ethnicity both within and without China is known as Han chauvinism.- Overview and context...
in which the emperor of China
Emperor of China
The Emperor of China refers to any sovereign of Imperial China reigning between the founding of Qin Dynasty of China, united by the King of Qin in 221 BCE, and the fall of Yuan Shikai's Empire of China in 1916. When referred to as the Son of Heaven , a title that predates the Qin unification, the...
was the highest authority, and all rulers of tributary states were known as "kings".
The history of Yi diplomacy can be parsed in four parts: (a) before the Japanese invasions in 1592-1598; (b) in the context of the invasion; (c) after the invasion; and (d) in modern times.
Joseon missions to the Muromachi shogunate
- See also: Joseon Tongsinsa#15th-16th century diplomatic ventures
The Joseon diplomatic contacts and communication with Japan encompassed formal embassies to the Muromachi bakufu
Ashikaga shogunate
The , also known as the , was a Japanese feudal military regime, ruled by the shoguns of the Ashikaga clan.This period is also known as the Muromachi period and gets its name from Muromachi Street of Kyoto where the third shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu established his residence...
. Joseon diplomacy also included the more frequent and less formal exchanges with the Japanese daimyo (feudal lord) of Tsushima Island
Tsushima Island
Tsushima Island is an island of the Japanese Archipelago situated in the middle of the Tsushima Strait at 34°25'N and 129°20'E. The main island of Tsushima was once a single island, but the island was divided into two in 1671 by the Ōfunakosiseto canal and into three in 1900 by the Manzekiseto canal...
.
In addition, trade missions between merchants of the area were commonplace. For example, more than 60 trade missions per year marked the period from 1450 through 1500.
| Year | Sender | Joseon chief envoy | Japanese shogun | Official purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1392 | Taejo Taejo of Joseon Taejo of Joseon , born Yi Seong-gye, whose changed name is Yi Dan, was the founder and the first king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, and the main figure in overthrowing the Goryeo Dynasty... |
– ? | Ashikaga Yoshimitsu Ashikaga Yoshimitsu was the 3rd shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who ruled from 1368 to 1394 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshimitsu was the son of the second shogun Ashikaga Yoshiakira.... |
Re-establishment of amicable relations between the two countries, remembering good relations which existed in ancient times |
| 1398 | Taejo Taejo of Joseon Taejo of Joseon , born Yi Seong-gye, whose changed name is Yi Dan, was the founder and the first king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, and the main figure in overthrowing the Goryeo Dynasty... |
Pak Tong-chi Pak Tong-chi Pak Tong-chi was a Korean scholar-bureaucrat, diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the tongsinsa to the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan.-1398 mission to Japan:... . |
Ashikaga Yoshimochi Ashikaga Yoshimochi was the 4th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who reigned from 1394 to 1423 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshimochi was the son of the third shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.... |
Response envoys; and seeking help in suppression of pirate fleets, called waegu (왜구) in Korean or wakō Wokou Wokou , which literally translates as "Japanese pirates" in English, were pirates of varying origins who raided the coastlines of China and Korea from the 13th century onwards... (倭寇) in Japanese. |
| 1404 | Taejong Taejong of Joseon King Taejong was the third king of the Joseon Dynasty in Korea and the father of King Sejong the Great.-Founding of Joseon:... |
Yǒ ǔi-gye | Ashikaga Yoshimochi | Response envoys |
| 1406 | Taejong | Yun Myǒng | Ashikaga Yoshimochi | Response envoys |
| 1410 | Taejong | Yan Yu (diplomat) Yan Yu (diplomat) Yan Yu was a Korean diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in a diplomatic mission to the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan.-1409-1410 mission to Japan:King Taejong dispatched a diplomatic mission to Japan in 1409-1410.... |
Ashikaga Yoshimochi | Response envoys; conveying condolences on the death of Yoshimitsu; and offering to send a copy of a rare Buddhist text. |
| 1413 | Taejong | Bak Bun? | Ashikaga Yoshimochi | –? |
| 1420 | Sejong | Song Hǔi-gyǒng | Ashikaga Yoshimochi | Response envoys |
| 1423 | Sejong | Pak Hǔi-chung | Ashikaga Yoshikazu Ashikaga Yoshikazu was the 5th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who reigned from 1423 to 1425 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshikazu was the son of the fourth shogun Ashikaga Yoshimochi.... |
Response envoys; and transporting a copy of a rare Buddhist text. |
| 1424 | Sejong | Pak An-sin | Ashikaga Yoshikazu | Response envoys |
| 1428 | Sejong | Pak Sǒ-saeng | Ashikaga Yoshinori Ashikaga Yoshinori was the 6th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who reigned from 1429 to 1441 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshinori was the son of the third shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.-Shogunal succession:... |
Condolences on the death of Yoshimochi; conveying congratulations on the succession of Yoshinori |
| 1432 | Sejong | Yi Ye Yi Ye Yi Ye was a military-official of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 15th century.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in two diplomatic missions to the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan.... |
Ashikaga Yoshinori | Response envoys |
| 1439 | Sejong | Ko Tǔk-chong | Ashikaga Yoshinori | Neighborly relations; and asking help in suppression of expanded waegu (wakō) activities. |
| 1443 | Sejong | Byeon Hyo-mun Byeon Hyo-mun Byeon Hyo-mun was a Korean civil minister from the Chogye Byeon clan during the early period of Korean Joseon Dynasty. He briefly served as a diplomat and an ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the Tongsinsa to the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan.-1443 mission to Japan:King Sejong... |
Ashikaga Yoshimasa Ashikaga Yoshimasa was the 8th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who reigned from 1449 to 1473 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshimasa was the son of the sixth shogun Ashikaga Yoshinori.... |
Condolences on the death of Yoshinori; and conveying congratulations on the succession of Yoshikatsu |
1392
In the 1st year of the reign of King Taejo of JoseonTaejo of Joseon
Taejo of Joseon , born Yi Seong-gye, whose changed name is Yi Dan, was the founder and the first king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, and the main figure in overthrowing the Goryeo Dynasty...
, a diplomatic mission was sent to Japan.
1398
In the 6th year of King Taejong's reign, a diplomatic mission was sent to Japan. Pak Tong-chi and his retinue arrived in Kyoto in the early autumn of 1398 (ŌeiOei
was a after Meitoku and before Shōchō. This period spanned the years from July 1394 through April 1428. Reigning emperors were and .-Change of era:* 1394 : The new era name was created because of plague...
5, 8th month). Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimochi
Ashikaga Yoshimochi
was the 4th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who reigned from 1394 to 1423 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshimochi was the son of the third shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu....
presented the envoy with a formal diplomatic letter; and presents were given for the envoy to convey to the Joseon court.
1409-1410
In the 10th year of King Taejong's reign, an ambassador from the Joseon court was received in Kyoto. This event in 1409 (Ōei 16, 3rd month) was considered significant.1420
In the 2nd year of the reign of King Sejong the Great, a diplomatic mission was sent to Japan.1428
In the 10th year of King Sejong's reign, the Joseon court dispatched Pak Sǒ-saeng as chief envoy of a mission to the shogunal court of Ashikaga YoshinoriAshikaga Yoshinori
was the 6th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who reigned from 1429 to 1441 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshinori was the son of the third shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu.-Shogunal succession:...
in Japan.
1439
In the 21st year of King Sejong's reign, a diplomatic mission was sent to Japan. The leader of this embassy to Shogun Yoshinori was Ko Tǔk-chong.1443
In the 25th year of King Sejong's reign, an embassy was sent to the Japanese capital. Byeon Hyo-munByeon Hyo-mun
Byeon Hyo-mun was a Korean civil minister from the Chogye Byeon clan during the early period of Korean Joseon Dynasty. He briefly served as a diplomat and an ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the Tongsinsa to the Ashikaga shogunate in Japan.-1443 mission to Japan:King Sejong...
was the chief envoy sent by the Joseon court. The ambassador was received in Kyoto by Ashikaga Yoshimasa
Ashikaga Yoshimasa
was the 8th shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate who reigned from 1449 to 1473 during the Muromachi period of Japan. Yoshimasa was the son of the sixth shogun Ashikaga Yoshinori....
.
Joseon missions to Hideyoshi
After the fall of the Ashikaga shogunate, the Joseon diplomatic missions to Japan were dispatched to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who emerged as an unchallenged strong man and leader after the death of Oda NobunagaOda Nobunaga
was the initiator of the unification of Japan under the shogunate in the late 16th century, which ruled Japan until the Meiji Restoration in 1868. He was also a major daimyo during the Sengoku period of Japanese history. His opus was continued, completed and finalized by his successors Toyotomi...
in 1582. The less formal contacts with the leaders of the Sō clan
So clan
The Sō were a Japanese clan claiming descent from Taira Tomomori. The clan governed and held Tsushima Island from the 13th-century through the late 19th-century, from the Kamakura period until the end of the Edo period and the Meiji restoration....
on Tsushima continued.
Diplomacy was set aside in 1592 when Japanese armies invaded Joseon territory. The ruptured bilateral relations were not restored immediately after the death of Hideyoshi in 1598; but the invading forces gradually withdrew from occupied land on the Korean peninsula.
| Year | Sender | Joseon chief envoy | Taiko Taiko means "drum" in Japanese . Outside Japan, the word is often used to refer to any of the various Japanese drums and to the relatively recent art-form of ensemble taiko drumming... |
Official purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1590 | Seonjo Seonjo of Joseon King Seonjo ruled in Korea between 1567 and 1608. He was the fourteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty. He is known for encouraging Confucianism and renovating state affairs at the beginning of his reign, although political chaos and his incompetent leadership during the Japanese invasions of Korea... |
Hwang Yun-gil Hwang Yun-gil Hwang Yun-gil, also known as Hwang Yun'gil, was a Korean diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in a tongsinsa to Sengoku period in Japan when it was constrolled by strongman Toyotomi Hideyoshi.-1590 mission to Japan:In 1590-1591, King Seonjo of Joseon sent a mission to Japan led... |
Toyotomi Hideyoshi Toyotomi Hideyoshi was a daimyo warrior, general and politician of the Sengoku period. He unified the political factions of Japan. He succeeded his former liege lord, Oda Nobunaga, and brought an end to the Sengoku period. The period of his rule is often called the Momoyama period, named after Hideyoshi's castle... |
Congratulations on the unification of Hideyoshi |
| 1596 | Seonjo | Hwang Sin Hwang Sin Hwang Sin was an officer of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 16th and 17th centuries. In 1588, Hwang took first in the final civil service examination .... |
Toyotomi Hideyoshi | Negotiating end of hostilities, withdrawal of invading Japanese forces. |
1590
In the 23rd year of the reign of King SeonjoSeonjo of Joseon
King Seonjo ruled in Korea between 1567 and 1608. He was the fourteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty. He is known for encouraging Confucianism and renovating state affairs at the beginning of his reign, although political chaos and his incompetent leadership during the Japanese invasions of Korea...
, a diplomatic mission led by Hwang Yun-gil
Hwang Yun-gil
Hwang Yun-gil, also known as Hwang Yun'gil, was a Korean diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in a tongsinsa to Sengoku period in Japan when it was constrolled by strongman Toyotomi Hideyoshi.-1590 mission to Japan:In 1590-1591, King Seonjo of Joseon sent a mission to Japan led...
was sent by the Joseon court to Japan. The Joseon ambassador was received by the Japanese leader, Toyotomi Hideyoshi
Toyotomi Hideyoshi
was a daimyo warrior, general and politician of the Sengoku period. He unified the political factions of Japan. He succeeded his former liege lord, Oda Nobunaga, and brought an end to the Sengoku period. The period of his rule is often called the Momoyama period, named after Hideyoshi's castle...
.
1596
In the 29th year of King Seonjo's reign, a diplomatic mission headed by Hwang SinHwang Sin
Hwang Sin was an officer of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 16th and 17th centuries. In 1588, Hwang took first in the final civil service examination ....
accompanied the Ming ambassadors who traveled to Japan.
Joseon missions to the Tokugawa shogunate
After the Japanese invaders were repulsed, the new Yi-Tokugawa diplomatic relations developed in a somewhat different manner than in earlier years| Year | Sender | Joseon chief envoy | Japanese shogun | Official purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1607 | Seonjo Seonjo of Joseon King Seonjo ruled in Korea between 1567 and 1608. He was the fourteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty. He is known for encouraging Confucianism and renovating state affairs at the beginning of his reign, although political chaos and his incompetent leadership during the Japanese invasions of Korea... |
Yŏ Ugil | Tokugawa Hidetada Tokugawa Hidetada was the second shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty, who ruled from 1605 until his abdication in 1623. He was the third son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate.-Early life :... |
Responding to Japanese invitation; observation of internal Japanese political situation; repatriation of prisoners. |
| 1617 | Gwanghaegun Gwanghaegun of Joseon Gwanghaegun or Prince Gwanghae was the fifteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty. His personal name was Yi Hon. Since he was deposed in a coup, later official historians did not give him a temple name like Taejo or Sejong... |
O Yun'gyŏm | Tokugawa Hidetada | Responding to Japanese invitation; congratulations on victory in Siege of Osaka Siege of Osaka The was a series of battles undertaken by the Tokugawa shogunate against the Toyotomi clan, and ending in that clan's destruction. Divided into two stages , and lasting from 1614 to 1615, the siege put an end to the last major armed opposition to the shogunate's establishment... ; repatriation of prisoners. |
| 1624 | Injo Injo of Joseon Injo of Joseon was the sixteenth king of the Korean Joseon Dynasty. He was the grandson of Seonjo, son of Grandprince Jeongwon... |
Chŏng Ip | Tokugawa Iemitsu Tokugawa Iemitsu Tokugawa Iemitsu was the third shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty. He was the eldest son of Tokugawa Hidetada, and the grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Iemitsu ruled from 1623 to 1651.-Early life :... |
Responding to Japanese invitation; congratulations on succession of Shogun Iemitsu; repatriation of prisoners. |
| 1636 | Injo | Im Kwang | Tokugawa Iemitsu | Celebrating prosperity. |
| 1643 | Injo | Yun Sunji Yun Sunji Yun Sunji was a scholar-official of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 17th century.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 5th Edo period diplomatic mission to Japan.-1643 mission to Japan:... |
Tokugawa Iemitsu | Celebrating birthday of Shogun Iemitsu. |
| 1655 | Hyojong Hyojong of Joseon King Hyojong was the seventeenth king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea from 1649 to 1659. He is best known for his plan for expedition to Manchu Qing dynasty and his campaigns against the Russian Empire by the request of Qing Dynasty... |
Cho Hyŏng | Tokugawa Ietsuna Tokugawa Ietsuna was the fourth shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty of Japan who was in office from 1651 to 1680. He was the eldest son of Tokugawa Iemitsu, thus making him the grandson of Tokugawa Hidetada and the great-grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu.-Early Life :... |
Congratulations on the succession of Shogun Ietsuna. |
| 1682 | Sukjong Sukjong of Joseon Sukjong was the 19th king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea from 1674 to 1720.- Biography :King Sukjong was born on 15 August 1661 to King Hyeonjong and Queen Myeongseong at Changdeok Palace. His given name was Yi Sun... |
Yun Jiwan Yun Jiwan Yun Jiwan, was a scholar-official of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 17th and 18th centuries.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 7th Edo period diplomatic mission to the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan.... |
Tokugawa Tsunayoshi Tokugawa Tsunayoshi was the fifth shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty of Japan. He was the younger brother of Tokugawa Ietsuna, thus making him the son of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the grandson of Tokugawa Hidetada, and the great-grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu.... |
Congratulions on the succession of Shogun Tsunayoshi. |
| 1711 | Sukjong | Jo Tae-eok Jo Tae-eok Jo Tae-eok , also known as Cho T'aeŏk, was a scholar-official and Jwauijeong of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 18th century.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 8th Edo period diplomatic mission to the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan.-1711 mission to Japan:In 1711,... |
Tokugawa Ienobu Tokugawa Ienobu was the sixth shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty of Japan. He was the eldest son of Tokugawa Tsunashige, thus making him the nephew of Tokugawa Ietsuna and Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the grandson of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the great-grandson of Tokugawa Hidetada, and the great-great grandson of Tokugawa... |
Congratulations on the succession of Shogun Ienobu. |
| 1719 | Sukjong | Hong Ch'ijung | Tokugawa Yoshimune Tokugawa Yoshimune was the eighth shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan, ruling from 1716 until his abdication in 1745. He was the son of Tokugawa Mitsusada, the grandson of Tokugawa Yorinobu, and the great-grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu.-Lineage:... |
Congratulations on the succession of Shogun Yoshimune. |
| 1748 | Yeongjo Yeongjo of Joseon Yeongjo was the twenty-first king of the Korean Joseon Dynasty. He was the second son of Sukjong by Lady Suk-bin of the Choi clan , succeeded his older brother Gyeongjong.-Reign:... |
Hong Kyehǔi | Tokugawa Ieshige Tokugawa Ieshige Tokugawa Ieshige; 徳川 家重 was the ninth shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan.The first son of Tokugawa Yoshimune, his mother was the daughter of Okubo Tadanao, known as Osuma no kata. His childhood name was Nagatomi-maru. He underwent the genpuku coming-of-age ceremony in 1725... |
Congratulations on the succession of Shogun Ieshige. |
| 1764 | Yeongjo | Jo Eom Jo Eom Jo Eom was a Korean civil minister in the 18th century during the late period of the Korean Joseon Dynasty .... |
Tokugawa Ieharu Tokugawa Ieharu Tokugawa Ieharu Tokugawa Ieharu Tokugawa Ieharu (徳川家治 (June 20, 1737 – September 17, 1786) was the tenth shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan, who held office from 1760 to 1786.Ieharu was the eldest son of Tokugawa Ieshige, the ninth shogun.-Events of the Ieharu's bakufu:... |
Congratulations on the succession of Shogun Ieharu. |
| 1811 | Sunjo Sunjo of Joseon Sunjo was the 23rd king of the Korean Joseon Dynasty.He was born His Royal Highness Prince Yi Gong, the 2nd son of King Jeongjo by his concubine, Lady Subin.... |
Kim Igyo Kim Igyo Kim Igyo was a scholar-official and Uuijeong of the Joseon Dynasty Korea.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 12th Edo period diplomatic mission to the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan.-1811 mission to Japan:... |
Tokugawa Ienari Tokugawa Ienari Tokugawa Ienari; 徳川 家斉 was the eleventh and longest serving shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan who held office from 1787 to 1837.-First wife:... |
Congratulations on the succession of Shogun Ienari. |
1607
In the 40th year of the reign of King Seonjo of JoseonSeonjo of Joseon
King Seonjo ruled in Korea between 1567 and 1608. He was the fourteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty. He is known for encouraging Confucianism and renovating state affairs at the beginning of his reign, although political chaos and his incompetent leadership during the Japanese invasions of Korea...
, representatives of the Joseon court were dispatched to Japan. This diplomatic mission functioned to the advantage of both the Japanese and the Koreans as a channel for developing a political foundation for trade. This embassy traveled to Edo for an audience with Shogun Tokugawa Hidetada
Tokugawa Hidetada
was the second shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty, who ruled from 1605 until his abdication in 1623. He was the third son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate.-Early life :...
in the 12th year of Keicho
Keicho
was a after Bunroku and before Genna. This period spanned from October 1596 to July 1615. The reigning emperors were and .-Change of era:* 1596 : The era name was changed to Keichō to mark the passing of various natural disasters...
, according to the Japanese era name
Japanese era name
The Japanese era calendar scheme is a common calendar scheme used in Japan, which identifies a year by the combination of the and the year number within the era...
in use at this time. Yŏ Ugil was the chief Joseon envoy; and there was 467 others accompanying him.
1617
In the 9th year of the reign of King Gwanghaegun of JoseonGwanghaegun of Joseon
Gwanghaegun or Prince Gwanghae was the fifteenth king of the Joseon Dynasty. His personal name was Yi Hon. Since he was deposed in a coup, later official historians did not give him a temple name like Taejo or Sejong...
, the Joseon court dispatched a mission to Edo; but the embassy travelled only as far as Kyoto. The delegation was received by Shogun Hidetada at Fushimi Castle
Fushimi Castle
', also known as Momoyama Castle or Fushimi-Momoyama Castle, is a castle in Kyoto's Fushimi Ward. The current structure is a 1964 replica of the original built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi.-History:...
in the 3rd year of Genna
Genna
was a coming after Keichō and before Kan'ei. This period spanned the years from July 1615 to February 1624. The reigning emperor was .-Change of era:...
, as the Japanese reckoned time. The chief envoy was O Yun'gyŏm and there were 428 others in his party.
1624
In the 2nd year of the reign of King Injo of JoseonInjo of Joseon
Injo of Joseon was the sixteenth king of the Korean Joseon Dynasty. He was the grandson of Seonjo, son of Grandprince Jeongwon...
, a delegation was sent to Edo with Chŏng Ip as its chief envoy. The size of this diplomatic numbered 460. Shogun Tokugawa Iemitsu
Tokugawa Iemitsu
Tokugawa Iemitsu was the third shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty. He was the eldest son of Tokugawa Hidetada, and the grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Iemitsu ruled from 1623 to 1651.-Early life :...
received the ambassador in Edo. The Joseon embassy was considered a significant event in the 1st year of Kanei
Kanei
was a after Genna and before Shōhō. This period spanned the years from February 1624 through December 1643. The reigning emperors and empress were , and .-Change of era:...
, according to the Japanese calendar,
1636
In the 14th year of King Injo's reign, a diplomatic mission was sent to Japan. The ambassador of the Joseon king was Im Kwang; and he was accompanied by 478 others. According to the Japanese calendar, the mission reached Japan in 1635 (Kan'ei 13, 12th month). This mission to the court of Shogun Iemitsu in Edo also encompassed a pilgrimage to the first shogun's mausoleum at Nikkō. The grand procession of the shogun, which included the large Joseon contingent, travelled from Edo to Nikko in the 4th month of the 14th year of Kan'ei.1643
In the 21st year of King Injo's reign, a mission to Edo was led by Yun SunjiYun Sunji
Yun Sunji was a scholar-official of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 17th century.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 5th Edo period diplomatic mission to Japan.-1643 mission to Japan:...
. The size of the Joseon delegation was 477. The delegation arrived at the shogunal court in Edo on the 20th year of Kan'ei, as reckoned by the Japanese calendar. This delegation was received in the court of Shogun Iemitsu; and they also completed a visit to Shogun Ieaysu's mausoleum at Nikkō.
1655
In the 6th year of the reign of King Hyojong of JoseonHyojong of Joseon
King Hyojong was the seventeenth king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea from 1649 to 1659. He is best known for his plan for expedition to Manchu Qing dynasty and his campaigns against the Russian Empire by the request of Qing Dynasty...
, the Joseon court sent a mission to the shogunal court of Tokugawa Ietsuna
Tokugawa Ietsuna
was the fourth shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty of Japan who was in office from 1651 to 1680. He was the eldest son of Tokugawa Iemitsu, thus making him the grandson of Tokugawa Hidetada and the great-grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu.-Early Life :...
. This mission arrived in Japan during the 1st year of Meireki
Meireki
was a after Jōō and before Manji. This period spanned the years from April 1655 to July 1658. The reigning emperor was .-Change of era:* 1655 : The era name was changed to mark the enthronement of Emperor Go-Sai...
, according to in the Japanese dating system. Cho Hyŏng was the chief envoy of the Joseon embassy, and his retinue numbered 485. After the embassy was received in the shogunate court at Edo; and the delegation proceeded the Tōshō-gū at Nikkō.
1682
In the 8th year of the reign of King Sukjong of JoseonSukjong of Joseon
Sukjong was the 19th king of the Joseon Dynasty of Korea from 1674 to 1720.- Biography :King Sukjong was born on 15 August 1661 to King Hyeonjong and Queen Myeongseong at Changdeok Palace. His given name was Yi Sun...
, a diplomatic mission to the shogunal court of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi
Tokugawa Tsunayoshi
was the fifth shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty of Japan. He was the younger brother of Tokugawa Ietsuna, thus making him the son of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the grandson of Tokugawa Hidetada, and the great-grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu....
was dispatched from the Joseon court. Yun Jiwan
Yun Jiwan
Yun Jiwan, was a scholar-official of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 17th and 18th centuries.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 7th Edo period diplomatic mission to the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan....
was the chief emissary; and he was accompanied by 473 others, traveling to Edo during the 2nd year of Tenna
Tenna
was a after Enpō and before Jōkyō. This period spanned the years from September 1681 through February 1684. The reigning emperor was .-Change of era:...
according to the Japanese calendar.
1711
In the 37th year King Sukjong's reign, an envoy was sent to the shogunal court of Tokugawa IenobuTokugawa Ienobu
was the sixth shogun of the Tokugawa dynasty of Japan. He was the eldest son of Tokugawa Tsunashige, thus making him the nephew of Tokugawa Ietsuna and Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the grandson of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the great-grandson of Tokugawa Hidetada, and the great-great grandson of Tokugawa...
. This embassy arrived in the 1st year of Shōtoku
Shotoku (era)
was a after Hōei and before Kyōhō. This period spanned the years from April 1711 through June 1716. The reigning emperor was .-Change of Era:...
, according to the Japanese calendar. Jo Tae-eok
Jo Tae-eok
Jo Tae-eok , also known as Cho T'aeŏk, was a scholar-official and Jwauijeong of the Joseon Dynasty Korea in 18th century.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 8th Edo period diplomatic mission to the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan.-1711 mission to Japan:In 1711,...
was the chief envoy of this diplomatic embassy; and the size of his delegation numbered 500.
1719
In the 45th year of King Sukjong's reign, an embassy was disptached to Japan. The Joseon envoy and his party arrived in Japan in the 10th month of the 4th year of KyōhōKyoho
was a after Shōtoku and before Gembun. This period spanned the years from July 1716 through April 1736. The reigning emperors were and .-Change of era:...
, as reckoned by the Japanese calendar in use at that time. King Sukjong sent Hong Ch'ijung with a retinue of 475. The Joseon ambassador was granted an audience with Shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune
Tokugawa Yoshimune
was the eighth shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan, ruling from 1716 until his abdication in 1745. He was the son of Tokugawa Mitsusada, the grandson of Tokugawa Yorinobu, and the great-grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu.-Lineage:...
.
1748
In the 24th year of the reign of King Yeongjo of JoseonYeongjo of Joseon
Yeongjo was the twenty-first king of the Korean Joseon Dynasty. He was the second son of Sukjong by Lady Suk-bin of the Choi clan , succeeded his older brother Gyeongjong.-Reign:...
, the Joseon court sent a diplomatic mission to Japan. The Joseon envoy and his retinue arrived in Edo in the 1st year of Kan'en, according to the Japanese caledar. The chief envoy of this Joseon delegation was Hong Kyehǔi; and he was accompanied by 475 others.
1764
In the 40th year of King Yeongjo's reign, a diplomatic envoy was dispatched to Japan. This mission to the shogunal court of Tokugawa IeharuTokugawa Ieharu
Tokugawa Ieharu Tokugawa Ieharu Tokugawa Ieharu (徳川家治 (June 20, 1737 – September 17, 1786) was the tenth shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan, who held office from 1760 to 1786.Ieharu was the eldest son of Tokugawa Ieshige, the ninth shogun.-Events of the Ieharu's bakufu:...
arrived in the shogunal capital the 1st year of Meiwa
Meiwa
was a after Hōreki and before An'ei. This period spanned the years from June 1764 through November 1772. The reigning empress and emperor were and .-Change of era:...
, as reckoned by the Japanese calendar. Jo Eom
Jo Eom
Jo Eom was a Korean civil minister in the 18th century during the late period of the Korean Joseon Dynasty ....
was the chief envoy in 1764; and 477 traveled with him. This ambassador is important historical figure because he is credited with introducing potatoes as a food crop in Korea. The "new" food staple was encountered during the course of this diplomatic mission.
1811
In the 11th year of the reign of King Sunjo of JoseonSunjo of Joseon
Sunjo was the 23rd king of the Korean Joseon Dynasty.He was born His Royal Highness Prince Yi Gong, the 2nd son of King Jeongjo by his concubine, Lady Subin....
, the king sent a mission to the shogunal court of Tokugawa Ienari. The embassy did not travel any further than Tsushima
Tsushima Island
Tsushima Island is an island of the Japanese Archipelago situated in the middle of the Tsushima Strait at 34°25'N and 129°20'E. The main island of Tsushima was once a single island, but the island was divided into two in 1671 by the Ōfunakosiseto canal and into three in 1900 by the Manzekiseto canal...
. The representatives of Shogun Ienari met the mission on the island which is located in the middle of the Korea Strait
Korea Strait
The Korea Strait is a sea passage between South Korea and Japan, connecting the East China Sea and the Sea of Japan in the northwest Pacific Ocean...
between the Korean Peninsula
Korean Peninsula
The Korean Peninsula is a peninsula in East Asia. It extends southwards for about 684 miles from continental Asia into the Pacific Ocean and is surrounded by the Sea of Japan to the south, and the Yellow Sea to the west, the Korea Strait connecting the first two bodies of water.Until the end of...
and Kyushu
Kyushu
is the third largest island of Japan and most southwesterly of its four main islands. Its alternate ancient names include , , and . The historical regional name is referred to Kyushu and its surrounding islands....
. The chief envoy of this mission was Kim Igyo
Kim Igyo
Kim Igyo was a scholar-official and Uuijeong of the Joseon Dynasty Korea.He was also diplomat and ambassador, representing Joseon interests in the 12th Edo period diplomatic mission to the Tokugawa shogunate in Japan.-1811 mission to Japan:...
; and there were 336 in his retinue.