A Brief History of Korea

Isolation, War, Despotism and Revival: The Fascinating Story of a Resilient But Divided People

De: Michael J. Seth

Narrado por: Sean Runnette

Korea was one of the last countries in Asia to be visited by Westerners, and its borders have remained largely unchanged since it was unified in the seventh century. Though it is one of the world's oldest and most ethnically homogeneous states, Korea was not born in a vacuum. Geographically isolated, the country was heavily influenced by powerful China and was often used as a bridge to the mainland by Japan.

Calling themselves as "a shrimp among whales", Koreans borrowed elements of government, culture, and religion, all the while fiercely fighting to maintain independence from powerful neighbors. This fascinating book tells the story of Korean domestic dynasties, empires, and states, as well as foreign conquest, occupation, and division. Today, the two Koreas are starkly different - North Korea a nation closed to the world and South Korea an economic powerhouse and center of Asian democracy.

Chronicling significant events right up through 2018's Singapore Summit, author Michael J. Seth presents a relevant, interesting, and important history of Korea within a larger global context. Korea's history is a turbulent one, but ultimately the story of a resistant and resourceful people in search of lasting peace.

©2019 Michael J. Seth (P)2019 Tantor

Korea has a very interesting history

I appreciate the way the author presented the history on Korea. It held my interest and helped me understand their current division that is so tragic.

A must listen for Lovers of Hallyu

I found it most valuable in understanding the origins of modern Korea and why it finds itself in such an interesting space. Modern society with deeply held old values. Fascinating.

Very pleasant

I really enjoyed it. I’m currently living in Korea and wanted to learn about the culture and history. I’m very satisfied.

Stunning

The narrator has such a nice voice it has helped me fall asleep so many times I can even begin to thank him

Eye Opening

Most folks reading this book already know of the dynamics between North and the South and possibly how thy came to be separated. What I didn't know are the details and fascinating history of the country and people as a whole and how they got to where they are today. This book brings the history of the Korean people and their struggles into a light that shows their resiliency and tenacity to be self-governing and principled people. I will very likely read this book again in the future and highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about Korea.

a great brief history of Korea

I enjoyed this book very much. I would almost say it was excellent, aside from the narrator's mispronouncing of Korean words. If your narrating a book, learn how to say the words. This is coming from a white American, lol. However, aside from the terrible pronunciation of Korean words, id give it 5 stars. however, if I was Korean, I might have found that more offensive, im not sure. Second languages are hard, but he had only a few words to practice before this. However, I thought this book was very accurate and would recommend it for a read. I would just correct his pronunciation before they read.

Interesting

Very well written. The narrative illustrates the heart and soul of a people who survived from prehistoric times. I wanted to know more, which is a sign that the author made the topic interesting.

Brief but Good

Excellent brief history. Direct and to the point. I'm sure far more detail could be spoken about Korea, but this is a " brief" history.

Very interesting and good introduction to Korean history.

I've only just started reading this, but this narrators pronunciation of Korean is abysmal. It's so bad that I will have to buy the hard copy just so I can actually know what he's talking about. I will probably give up on the audio. It's nearly unintelligible.

Excellent History of Korea

This history is thorough and entertaining. A great read for anyone interested in learning more about Korea, its long history, and its people.