Abstract

This study aims to achieve the following: 1. A review of the current literature will be conducted to explore the literature on the Joseon Dynasty Joséon Trade Strategy. 2. To determine four main trade strategies followed by the dynasty. 3. To examine the social and economic impact and consequences of these strategies in the context of geopolitics. 4. To better understand how these old traditions influenced Korean culture and the development of the Korean economy. By synthesizing a systematic review of the published scholarship, this paper responds to a critical knowledge void concerning the roles of its trade strategies in shaping Joseon Korea. Furthermore, the application of these strategies is analyzed in terms of their impact on the formation of regional relations in East Asia. Being an East Asian one of Confucian culture, Joseon’s trade policies were thoroughly based on ethical, thrifty, and autonomous principles. Such values influenced the dynasty’s decision-making not to allow the interaction with the outside world in its economic ventures to undermine its cultural aroma. Therefore, Joseon protected its internal development from aggressive foreign trade. Thus, it was initially able to maintain its cultural differences, not being influenced by economically more open neighbors, such as Japan and China.