The Choson Dynasty (1392-1910), sometimes known as the Yi Dynasty, was a dynasty founded by General Yi Seonggye in what is modern day Korea, and lasted for five centuries as one of the world's longest running monarchies.
The Choson Dynasty's rule has left a substantial legacy on the modern face of Korea; much of modern Korean etiquette, cultural norms, societal attitudes towards current issues, and even the modern Korean language and its dialects stem from the traditional thought pattern that originated from this period.
The Choson Dynasty presided over two periods of great cultural growth, during which Choson culture created the first Korean Tea Ceremony, Korean Gardens, and extensive encyclopedias.
Many Korean inventions are from this period, such as the first Asian sundial and the world's first water-powered clock. Also, King Sejong saw the development of the world's first rain gauge, made by court scientist Jang Yeong-sil. During the Choson period, the metal printing press, invented during the Goryeo dynasty in 1232, supplanted the wood-block printing press in China.
The Choson Dynasty is considered by many to be Korea's "Age of Enlightenment."
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